America 250 at Delaware County District Library
July 4, 2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the United States Declaration of Independence, known as the Semiquincentennial. Join the Delaware County District Library as we host exhibits, share books, and provide programming to honor 250 years of United States history. This webpage provides information about library activities as well as local and statewide events and resources connected to the America 250 celebration across Ohio.
Learn more about how Delaware County is celebrating America 250!
Delaware County Homecoming Picnic
Save the Date! July 11, 2026
Bring your friends & family to the Orange Branch for an afternoon of fun! Celebrate the 250th Anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence with live music, food trucks, games, & more!
America's Hometown Movie Theaters Author Visit at The Strand Theatre
Save the Date: June 17, 2026
Author Benita VanWinkle is visiting The Strand Theatre in Downtown Delaware for a panel discussion about her book “America’s Hometown Movie Theaters: Please Remain Standing.” The panel will discuss the American tradition of hometown theaters, their architectural significance, and preservation efforts for these American classics.
The panel will be moderated by DCDL’s Nicole Fowles and will include:
- Benita VanWinkle – author
- Tracey Peyton – Managing Director, The Strand Theatre
- Chris Yates – Director, Ross Art Museum
- Matt Wiederhold – Exectuive Director, Heritage Ohio
Library Programs & Events
Events Around Delaware County
The Arts Castle
Collage of America’s 250th Exhibit
March 16 – May 29, 2026 / Artist Reception: April 12, 3-5:30pm
Capturing the freedom of expression, 50 artists share their views of our country and some of its history with paint, photography, sculpture and thread. Included are maps decorated by local 3rd grade classrooms. Featuring artifacts from the Delaware County Historical Society.
Keep an eye open for programs and events that match these monthly themes, as designated by the Ohio History Connection.
- January – Ohio 1st & Originals
- February – Inventions, Business, & Work
- March – Music & Entertainment
- April – Planes, Trains, & Automobiles
- May – Arts Culture, Literature
- June – Natural Resources
- July – Homecoming/Picnic
- Aug – Fairs & Festivals
- Sep – Sports
- Oct – Agriculture & Food
- Nov – Veterans & First Responders
- Dec – The Future
Founding Documents of the United States
Want to read the founding documents of the United States, known as the Charters of Freedom, or learn more about them? The National Archives is the place to go.
- The Declaration of Independence (document transcript)
- The Constitution (document transcript)
- The Bill of Rights (document transcript)
Resources
All America 250-Ohio Events
Join communities across Ohio in commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence with events that honor the past and ignite the future.
INFOhio: PreK-12 Digital Library
Use the America 250 Toolkit for eBooks, videos, and activities to celebrate the spirit of community, citizenship, and exploration throughout the year.
Mission Statement
We open doors to imagination, knowledge, connection, and discovery.