What do Charles Dickens, cuneiform tablets, and James Bond have in common? The answer is Hands-on History at the Free Library, which wraps up its inaugural year with a holiday program on Saturday, December 14 at 2:00 p.m., celebrating the works of Charles Dickens. Participants will explore manuscripts, original illustrations, autographed letters, and other objects which once belonged to the man who gave us A Christmas Carol and changed the way Christmas is celebrated. Best of all, attendees will get the chance to sit at the desk of Charles Dickens!

Hands-On History returns next year with brand new, diverse, and exciting programs. Touch the first and oldest examples of writing, handle rarely seen 19th and early 20th century artifacts and documents which reflect African American middle-class culture, learn about the American government’s relationship with Indigenous peoples, discover the real James Bond, and learn about the history of trade unions!

Take history in the palm of your hand: turn pages, hold manuscripts, and handle artifacts with the Hands-on History series from the Free Library's Special Collections. Curiosity seekers of all ages are welcome! Admission is always free, but registration is suggested to guarantee your seat.

For programming questions contact Joe Shemtov at shemtovj@freelibrary.org