One of my fondest childhood memories is going to the library with my mom and my siblings. I was completely enchanted—unable to get enough of the beautiful covers, the colors, the promise held inside every book. Honestly, not much has changed. I’m still that way. That lifelong love of picture books is one of the many reasons I’ve spent more than a fair amount of time happily meandering the halls of the Mazza Museum.
From the moment I see the sign that reads “Celebrating the Art of Picture Books,” I feel understood. I’ve always believed that children’s picture books are the most powerful and important literary format there is. At their very best, they need no words at all—the story, the emotion, the meaning can live entirely within the illustrations themselves.
Once you pass through the doors, you’re immersed in a world of extraordinary talent. The museum showcases a breathtaking range of artists and illustrators whose work defines and elevates children’s literature. Within these walls are pieces by recipients of the Caldecott Medal, Golden Kite Award, Kate Greenaway Medal, Newbery Medal, and the Mazza Medallion. Every display feels intentional and inviting, encouraging a deeper appreciation for picture book illustration, storytelling, and the language arts as a whole.
I had no idea just how lovely the Mazza Museum was until the first time I toured it. Now, I’m completely obsessed. It is an outstanding museum—truly, outstanding. There comes a moment during every visit when I feel an unexpected pang of sadness, knowing I’ll soon have to exit those doors and leave that magical space behind.
The Mazza Museum is absolutely worth a visit. The artwork is rotated quarterly, with the Catherine Freed Galleria changing even more frequently, ensuring that each visit offers something new to discover.
The only real problem with visiting the Mazza Museum is this: I never want to leave.
Museum Hours of Operation
Sunday, 1 – 4 p.m.
Wed. – Fri., Noon – 5 p.m.
• Children under 12 admitted with adult supervision