In honor of Black History Month, the Rockport Public Library will feature a month-long exhibit entitled, A Scott Joplin Celebration! 

From February 3 through 28, the public is invited to view original artwork, sketches, sketchbooks, book prototypes, sheet music, and more from acclaimed author/illustrator Stephen Costanza’s book King of Ragtime: The Story of Scott Joplin.

The material featured in the exhibit will explore the life of beloved African American composer Scott Joplin, whose joyful and irrepressible ragtime music paved the way for jazz, according to Rockport Public Library, in a news release.

On Saturday, Feb. 28, at 10:30 a.m., a Multimedia Family Show will complement the exhibit. Costanza will provide a dynamic, music-filled presentation that offers a behind-the-scenes look at the process for creating his book about Scott Joplin. Books will be available for purchase at the event.

Youth Librarian Stephanie Curcione encourages families to explore other beautifully illustrated, musically-influenced books by Costanza. On Saturday, Feb. 21, at 10:30 a.m., Curcione will lead families in the creation of art inspired by Costanza’s book Vivaldi and the Invisible Orchestra. Space is limited. Call the library at 207-236-3642 to register.

Stephen Costanza has written and illustrated numerous picture books, including Mozart Finds A Melody and the recent When Auggie Learned to Play Chess. His book King of Ragtime: The Story of Scott Joplin received starred reviews from Kirkus Reviews, Booklist, and Publisher’s Weekly, and was the recipient of the 2022 Golden Kite Award for illustration by the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators. He lives in North Haven, Maine.