Have you picked up your copy of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, the Spring 2026 book for Iola Reads? Look for the yellow tubs around town and at the Iola Public Library to get your copy to read and share. A classic of English literature, this romantic “novel of manners” follows the relationship of Miss Elizabeth Bennett and the wealthy Fitzwilliam Darcy and introduces us to a cast of memorable characters.
Jane Austen’s 250th birthday was celebrated on December 16, 2025. To honor her and her contributions as a writer, we have planned a birthday party and Regency Rave on March 7. Join us at the Bass Center at 7:00 pm to see Miss Chelsea’s dance studio students perform and teach us a few Regency era dances and stay for a family-friendly dance party DJ’d by Joshua from Spare Time Sounds. There will be birthday cake, Regency refreshments and prizes.
For movie lovers, we will show a film adaptation of Pride and Prejudice at the Iola Public Library on Friday, February 27 at 6:30 p.m. with Regency refreshments and prizes.
Tubs are located at the Public Library, Community National Bank, Iola Vision Source, the Senior Center, the City of Iola utilities office, the Townhouse, Wild Bloom, Iola Pharmacy, G&W, Community Health Center of SEK, Bennett Laundry, and Allen Community College library.
Started in 2005, Iola Reads is a collaboration between Unified School District #257, Iola Public Library, and the Bowlus Fine Arts Center, with additional individuals from the community on our committee. Funding is provided by the Sleeper Family Trust. For more information, visit iolapubliclibrary.org and watch for flyers around town.
