Center for Puppetry Arts Partners with GA Libraries for PASSPORT TO PUPPETRY

Georgia families can now pay a free visit to Big Bird, the Fraggles, Wayland Flowers' Madame, and a host of other popular puppet characters by using a library card.

Thanks to a new partnership between the Center for Puppetry Arts and Georgia's Public Libraries, citizens with valid library cards can check out the Center's new "Passport to Puppetry" at any participating public library in all 159 Georgia counties.

The "Passport to Puppetry" is valid for up to four free museum admissions-a potential savings of up to $33 per family. Parties with children must include at least one adult. The museum provides educational fun with more than 350 puppets from around the world, highlighting the fact that every civilization on our planet has its own unique form of puppetry tradition. By examining and learning more about the cultural traditions of other countries, one gains a greater understanding of our shared histories and values.

"We strive to be accessible to anyone who wishes to avail themselves of our programming and welcome this opportunity to partner with the Georgia Public Library Service," said Vincent Anthony, the Center's founding Executive Director. "Whether you're an elementary, high, or college student; parent, toddler, or senior citizen, we endeavor to provide access to many different activities thereby gaining a greater understanding of our shared cultural heritage. After a visit, we hope that you understand that puppetry is not just for kids: it's for everyone."

The museum at the Center for Puppetry Arts is open Tuesdays through Sundays with hours varying upon day and programming. In addition to four free admissions, the "Passport to Puppetry" also entitles library patrons to attend a performance at the Center and/or participate in a Create-a-Puppet Workshop at a 25% discount, when space is available. Complete details, including valid dates, show times, hours of operation, and reservation information are available online at www.puppet.org.

"This wonderful collaboration between the Center for Puppetry Arts and Georgia's public libraries brings an even greater dimension and value to our ever-growing list of services," said Dr. Lamar Veatch, Georgia's state librarian. "We are thrilled for our libraries to offer this entertaining educational opportunity to citizens in every corner of our state."

Visit www.puppet.org/museum/galibrarypassport.shtml for full details on accessing and how to use the "Passport to Puppetry," or visit your local Georgia public library for more information. All public libraries in Georgia are participating in this program.