My library visits are different from my school visits.

- I try to appeal to the mixed ages of the audience. Please don't worry if
the mix seems young; I've presented to a roomful of moms and toddlers
before and it went fine.
- I try to avoid repeating information if some students at the library have
seen my daytime school program.
- I try to limit the presentation/drawing time to 35-45 minutes,
with added time for questions and answers and autographing books.
- We do more art and less academics than in my school programs.

What I usually cover:
- examples of my journals
- how to make your own journal (out of a simple sheet of paper)
- how to draw some of my characters
- simple McDoodle words
- a glimpse of my childhood
- what it's like to be an author (rejection, revisions, writing process, etc).
- question and answer time

It's all in the format of a Sketch Workshop --
the audience sketches with me, learning basic concepts in sketching
animals and people while I demonstrate on my oversize sketchpad.

I bring:
- easel and oversize sketchpad (you supply if I'm traveling out of state)
- paper and pencils for attendees
- a few handouts (bookmarks, etc)

You supply:
- microphone if you expect a large audience
- table for props
- promotions so your community knows I'm coming

In answer to frequently asked questions:

Should kids sit on the floor or at tables with chairs?
I've done both, most commonly on the floor. I don't think kids care much.
We fold the paper enough that it's a fairly solid and small surface to draw on
even if they're sitting on carpet.
(Some libraries provide clipboards, coloring books or other stable surfaces as
backing for drawing paper. Definitely not necessary, but nice if it's done)
More kids can squeeze into a smaller space if they're on the floor.
They probably can see my easel better without other heads in the way.
It's a more intimate gathering, with less formal structure.
I think the best option is to have chairs for those who want them (especially
parents and other older visitors) and the floor for kids.
But it's your call. You know your kids and what your library prefers.  :)

May we record the event? It's fine with me if your district wants to tape or
photograph all or part of my presentation to use on your website later.
I ask that you please (1) send me a copy and (2) don't distribute the images
all over creation in such a way that I lose out on all my future paying gigs.

How should I promote this?
Consider promoting it as a Cartoon Sketching Workshop for kids and adults.
I can also cover Graphic Novels if the audience is mostly teens.
To make an event flyer, download this edit-able form, add your info, and print!

What ages/numbers should we limit this to?
I'd actually prefer no limits. I'm willing to work with whatever audience shows up,
whether it's huge or tiny, old or young. I alternate basic and more complex art
to keep both ends of the spectrum happy.
If we're too many people for your room, I'm happy to move outside.
My goal is to reach as many people as I can, to to help them embrace their
inner cartoonist and writer and to introduce Ellie McDoodle.

What are your rates? Negotiable. Generally $150 plus travel expenses.
I live in south Lansing, Michigan. I am willing to travel far; consider booking me
for a nighttime event after I've visited a school in the area.
To help pay my fee you can do a booksale. Just follow the directions for
booksales for school visits.

Contact me for scheduling or questions: ruthexpress@aol.com