July 4, 2026, will mark the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. To kick off its observances of America 250 – the United States Semiquincentennial – Newton Public Library will host a public reading and discussion of the Declaration of Independence on Tuesday, Feb. 3, at 6:30 p.m.

Members of the community are invited to attend and participate in this “Declaration Conversation,” made possible by Humanities Kansas. The event will be facilitated by Anne Hawkins, a Kansas historian who has published numerous articles and given hundreds of historical talks and presentations across the state.

“America 250 is a chance to step back and ask what these words have meant, and what we want them to mean now,” said Sam Jack, Newton Public Library’s adult librarian. “By reading the Declaration together and talking about it in a respectful space, we’re inviting the community to reflect on the ideals it names and the challenges that have followed.”

Following an introduction by Hawkins, Newton High School speech and debate students will read excerpts from the Declaration of Independence. Hawkins will then lead a community discussion about the Declaration, its meaning, and its impact.

“Hearing the Declaration in the voices of students is a reminder that our country’s story belongs to the next generation, too,” said Jack. “Their participation will help bring the text to life and set the tone for a conversation that welcomes everyone.”

The Declaration Conversation is free and open to the public; no registration is needed. It is part of Humanities Kansas’s “Declaration at 250” activities, which also include a statewide tour of the “Declaration 1776: The Big Bang of Modern Democracy” traveling exhibition. The exhibition will be on view at North Newton’s Kauffman Museum, Nov. 14 through Dec. 31, 2026.

For more info on “Declaration at 250,” go to www.humanitieskansas.org. For more on America 250 programs and events across the state, visit www.travelks.com/kansas-250.