Today, in the lobby of the Parkway Central Library, the Free Library of Philadelphia, in partnership with The Philadelphia Shakespeare Theatre and numerous other cultural organizations from around the region, kicked off the Year of the Bard: Shakespeare at 450--a year packed full of engaging, enlightening, and entertaining programs and events designed to celebrate Shakespeare in all his classic and modern incarnations. Actors from The Philadelphia Shakespeare Theatre and West Philadelphia High School entertained the crowd, and Shakespeare himself made an appeareance, too.

Throughout 2014, the Year of the Bard will offer Shakespeare buffs and newcomers alike a plethora of fun, festive ways to get in on the celebration. Every month throughout the year will feature numerous activities, including engaging lectures, digital and live exhibitions, pop-up and theatrical performances, film screenings for all ages, and of course a big birthday bash on April 23. Shakespeare For All Time, a new exhibition celebrating Shakespeare and featuring his important First Folio, will open on January 27 in the new William B. Dietrich Gallery in the Rare Book Department at Parkway Central.

Stay tuned to freelibrary.org/bard for all the latest details and upcoming events!