Meet Louisa May Alcott, the beloved author whose children’s books made her one of America’s most famous writers. Leslie Goddard returns to portray Alcott in a program that draws from Alcott’s own diaries, books, and letters to bring the passionate, humorous, and progressive author to life. This program will take place in the Johnson Room on the first floor of the library. Registration required.

Artist William Morris founded his first decorative arts design firm in 1861. Over the following decades he collaborated with his wife, Jane Burden, along with fellow artists, and became a leading contributor to the English Arts and Crafts movement. Art historian Jeff Mishur will discuss works by Morris and his colleagues, including paintings, furniture, stained glass, textiles and decorative arts.

The past decade has seen many exciting developments in Chicago, from the converted warehouses in the Fulton Market District to Studio Gang’s stunning St. Regis skyscraper. Laurie Petersen, editor of the newly published fourth edition of the “AIA Guide to Chicago,” will show dozens of examples in a richly illustrated presentation. Registration required for both in-library attendance and online viewing.