Common Ground: 250 Years of Stories in the Making – February Hightlights
Celebrating America’s Semiquincentennial at the Laramie County Library System
On July 4, 2026, the United States will observe an extraordinary milestone — the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. This national moment of reflection and celebration is known as America’s Semiquincentennial, and at the Laramie County Library System, we have launched Common Ground: 250 Years of Stories in the Making, a countywide commemoration that invites our community to explore history, connection, and shared experience in many forms.
Common Ground offers a series of programs, exhibits, reading initiatives, and interactive experiences across all library locations from February through July 2026. The celebration provides opportunities for residents of all ages to reflect on where we’ve been, consider what connects us, and imagine what comes next.
Below are the Common Ground events happening in February — designed to spark curiosity, encourage dialogue, and bring people together around stories that shape our understanding of America.
America 250: America in the Movies
- Wednesday, February 4, 2026
- 1:30 – 3:30 pm
- Pine Bluffs Branch
- Designed for adults
Kick off the month with the first in our movie series celebrating 250 years of American history. 1776, a beloved musical that brings the founding era to life, will be screened. The story follows familiar historical figures as they work toward independence from Great Britain. Popcorn is provided, and you are welcome to bring your favorite snacks.
Common Ground: Lunch Bunch Book Club
- Saturday, February 21, 2026
- 12:00 – 1:00 pm
- Pine Bluffs Branch
- Designed for adults
Readers are invited to gather for a discussion of This Tender Land by William Kent Krueger. This is a potluck-style event, so bring a snack to share alongside thoughtful conversation.
American Girl Tea Party
- Saturday, February 21, 2026
- 2:00 – 3:00 pm
- Early Literacy Center, Cheyenne
- Designed for children & families
Join us for an American Girl Tea Party featuring books, tea, snacks, games, and crafts inspired by American Girl history. Children are encouraged to bring their favorite doll — any doll is welcome. This family event combines historical celebration with creative play.
Exodusters: Black History in the West
- Wednesday, February 25, 2026
- 6:00 – 7:30 pm
- Cottonwood Room, Cheyenne
- Designed for teens & adults
The Exoduster movement was a significant chapter in the settlement of the American West as formerly enslaved people sought new lives on the Great Plains after emancipation. University of Wyoming Assistant Professor of History Cecily Zander, Ph.D., leads a discussion about the Exodusters’ journey and the continental impact of the Civil War and Reconstruction.
African American Genealogy Research Basics
- Saturday, February 28, 2026
- 2:00 – 3:30 pm
- Sunflower Room, Cheyenne
- Designed for adults
Researching African American ancestry can present unique challenges. This session provides guidance on resources and strategies beyond standard genealogical records, including census data, Freedman’s Bank records, military documents, newspaper archives, DNA research, and more.
About Common Ground: 250 Years of Stories in the Making
Common Ground: 250 Years of Stories in the Making is rooted in the idea that every story matters and every voice belongs. Through lectures, screenings, discussions, exhibits, reading challenges, and more, this celebration encourages members of the community to participate in meaningful exploration of history and shared experience. From local history to national milestones, the programs in this series offer many ways to engage with the past and reflect on the future we are building together.