June 26, Alabama 200 master teacher Carol Fretwell read “A Picture Book of Helen Keller” by David A. Adler to children at the Russellville Public Library for a Helen Keller bicentennial program as part of the library’s summer reading program – and in honor of Keller’s birthday.

In reading the book and providing and discussing additional details, Fretwell told the children of many of Helen Keller’s varied accomplishments, despite her having to deal with the challenges of being both blind and deaf. She talked about Braille, the raised dot system that allows blind people to read by touch, and asked the children if they had encountered it in public places.

After the story and discussion, Fretwell provided a chart and helped the children glue split peas to paper to “write” their names in Braille.

The next activity in the library’s summer series is set for July 5 at 1 p.m. The McWane Science Center will conduct a program suitable for all ages. There is no cost to attend, but since the library needs to manage available space, those wishing to participate need to contact the library to register.

The Russellville Public Library is located at 100 Lawrence St. E. For more information, visit its Facebook page, send an email to ruslib110@yahoo.com or call 256-332-1535. Information is also available on the library’s website.