The Anne Frank Tree: Taking root in Iowa

On April 29, 2022, the University of Iowa in partnership with several other organizations will plant a new tree on the University of Iowa’s Pentacrest—a sapling propagated from the immense horse chestnut tree that grew in the courtyard behind the annex where Anne Frank and her family hid for 761 days during World War II. This living symbol of Anne’s spirit and humanitarian message will be the 13th Anne Frank Sapling to be planted in the United States. 

In recognition of this special event, ICPL is hosting several events to learn about and reflect on Anne Frank's legacy prior to the tree planting.

Reading Anne Frank: Dear Kitty - The act of keeping a diary

Wednesday, March 30, 2022 - 7 p.m. | Meeting Room A

Speakers: high school teacher Ali Borger-German, playwright Emma Silverman, and author Jennifer New.

This series provides three different lenses through which to view the diary and Frank's story. Find more about the speakers at http://uiannefranktree.com

Reading Anne Frank: Judaism in the Diary of Anne Frank - a discussion

Monday, April 11, 2022 - 7 p.m. | Meeting Room A

Josh Hare, Program Director at Iowa Hillel, will lead the discussion.

Third and final presentation related to Anne Frank: Diary of a Young Girl. To learn more about the presenters and topics go to http://uiannefranktree.com

Teen Writing Hangout- The Diary Of Anne Frank

Thursday, April 14, 2022 - 4 p.m. | Koza Family Teen Center

No experience is necessary and all voices are welcome. You can drop by anytime from 4-6 pm.
Want to join but can't get to the library? Email victoria-fernandez@icpl.org and we'll send you a link.

Taking Root: Kids Discover Anne Frank in Iowa

Saturday, April 23, 2022 - 1 p.m. | Storytime Room

Kids and families, join us for a film screening about the life of Anne Frank, which we know about today from her famous diary. Following the film, help the library create a collaborative art installation by decorating a leaf with your reflections on peace, hope, and Anne's resilient spirit.

Teen Writing Hangout- Anne Frank's Legacy

Thursday, April 28, 2022 - 4 p.m. | Koza Family Teen Center

This week we're honoring the legacy of Anne Frank and discussing her diary and exploring little-known facts about her.
No experience is necessary and all voices are welcome. You can drop by anytime from 4-6 pm.
Want to join but can't get to the library? Email victoria-fernandez@icpl.org and we'll send you a link.

Anne Frank Tree Planting

Friday, April 29, 2022 - 4 p.m. | Koza Family Teen Center

Teens are welcome to meet at the Teen Center between 4 pm and 4:15 pm. We'll walk over to the University of Iowa for the Anne Frank museum exhibit and tree planting.