Events
We have lots of fun and engaging programs happening for the NEA Big Read throughout Missoula County. All events are at Missoula Public Library unless otherwise indicated in the descriptions below. Book discussions can be found here
NEA Big Read Launch Party
As part of Montana Book Festival activities, get your copy of The Cold Millions and enjoy snacks, specialty drinks by Bamboo Bar, live music by Wailing Aaron Jennings, and an old-time photo booth! Drinks and snacks provided by the Friends of the Missoula Public Library.
Food Drive
In recognition of the themes of hardship and economic inequality in The Cold Millions, MPL will be holding a food drive throughout the Big Read to support the Missoula Food Bank. Donate food and get an entry to win an MPL Big Read gift basket!
Memory Café: Rail Tales & Travel
All Aboard! Let’s travel the rails together in solidarity with this year’s NEA Big Read book The Cold Millions by Jess Walter. We’ll share memories, experiences, and activities all about trains.
It All Began in Missoula! Frank Little, Father of the Western Free Speech Fight
Jane Little Botkin, author of the award-winning biography Frank Little and the IWW: The Blood That Stained an American Family, will discuss details of the first recognized western free speech fight, held in Missoula, Sept. 28, 1909, through Oct. 8, 1909.
Author Event with Jess Walter
Missoula County Commissioner Josh Slotnick welcomes author Jess Walter for a lively presentation, discussion, and Q&A.
*This program will be recorded and live streamed on MCAT’s Facebook, and will be available there to watch later.
An Evening with Author Jess Walter in Seeley Lake
Missoula County Commissioner Juanita Vero welcomes author Jess Walter for a lively presentation, discussion, and Q&A.
Story Time – Special NEA Big Read Edition
Join us for a special Story Time related to the themes of The Cold Millions.
Kid Gloves and Brass Knuckles: The Life of Nancy Cooper Russell with Mary Jane Bradbury
The story of Nancy Cooper Russell will be brought to life in this all-ages interactive program.
A History of Organized Labor in Montana with State Archivist Rich Aarstad
Join Rich Aarstad, State Archivist at the Montana Historical Society, for this presentation and discussion of the long and robust organized labor union history in Montana. Rich’s BA and MA in History from the University of Montana, long-time Union membership, and knowledge of local lore make him an expert on the topic. This event is presented in partnership with the Montana Historical Society.
*This program will be recorded and live streamed on MCAT’s Facebook, and will be available there to watch later.
Saturday Matinee: Disney’s Newsies
In honor of the tramps and newsboys featured in The Cold Millions, join us for a matinee showing of Disney’s 1992 historical musical, Newsies.
Stolen: If They Haven’t Come for Yours, They Will with Chris La Tray
Using the lens of experience of the Little Shell Tribe, La Tray will draw parallels between their history and current events unfolding with a broader reach in communities across the country.
*This program will be recorded and live streamed on MCAT’s Facebook, and will be available there to watch later.
NEA Big Read Closing Party
The last event of our month of Big Read programming! Celebrate The Cold Millions, Montana history, and local music, with the team from the Death in the West podcast, and singer-songwriter Dylan Running Crane. Drinks and snacks provided by the Friends of the Missoula Public Library.
But Wait, There's More!
We found many other activities in our area related to themes from The Cold Millions. Visit these on-land and on-line locations of interest for more free or low-cost fun.
Free Speech Corner – Northwest corner of N. Higgins Ave. and W. Front St. in Missoula
Walking Tour of The Historical Museum at Fort Missoula – 3400 Captain Rawn Way in Missoula
Unseen Missoula: Historic Downtown Guided Walking Tours – click the link to view locations and ticket details
Montana Museum of Work History – 7655 Hwy. 10 W. in Missoula
New Songs for the Butte Mining Camp music project
The Murder of Frank Little Tour
4HistoryBuffs: Western Montana Restricted Districts with Sophia Etier