African-American Folktales Explored at Del City Library

Who is Anansi the Spider?

He's not a super hero or the villain from an old movie serial.

If you don't know already and want to find out more, join area actor and playwright Al Bostick at the Del City Library, 4509 SE 15 th in Del City , on Oct. 25 beginning at 6:30 p.m. , as he explores, explains and relates tales of this famous character from African folklore.

"We're really excited to have Al Bostick visit the Del City Library to share African American folktales," said librarian Sam Weehunt. "He will trace the traditional tales and folklore of African-Americans, so you know we'll hear about Anansi the Spider and the other animal tricksters as their stories traveled from Africa to America ."

Anansi is not just a practical joker-he is the god of stories, and as such a great culture hero among African and African-American story tellers. So popular have the tales about his adventures become, you probably know one of the most famous ones without knowing what it is.

"Do you remember the Uncle Remus story about Brer Rabbit and the Tar Baby?" Weehunt asks. "Well, that was originally an Anansi story."

Al Bostick is an Artist in Residence with the State Arts Council and he has delighted audiences of all ages with his dynamic presentations all around Oklahoma .

"I don't think there's much of anything Al can't do," Weehunt concluded, "and we feel pleased and honored to bring this fine educator and entertainer to the Del City Library for our customers to enjoy."

For more information or to pre-register, call 672-1377.

The Metropolitan Library System of Oklahoma County includes 12 libraries and five extension libraries. Libraries include Belle Isle, Capitol Hill, Ralph Ellison, Ronald J. Norick Downtown Library and Southern Oaks in Oklahoma City, as well as Bethany, Choctaw, Del City, Edmond, Midwest City, Village and Warr Acres. Extensions are located in the communities of Harrah, Jones, Luther and Nicoma Park and include Wright Library in Oklahoma City . You can also reach us at www.metrolibrary.org.