ACPL and Botanical Conservatory Partner to Celebrate New Book “Fern’s Fairylight Express”

The Allen County Public Library (ACPL) is once again partnering with the Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory to celebrate the release of a new children’s book by local author and illustrator Talitha Shipman. 

The Conservatory has donated twenty copies of Shipman’s newest book  “Fern’s Fairylight Express” to the Library’s collection. Each copy will circulate with a complimentary family pass to the Conservatory’s new exhibit inspired by the book. The exhibit will run November 22, 2025 – April 12, 2026. 

Any ACPL patron who borrows a copy of the book from the Library can use the enclosed pass for free admission to the Conservatory for up to four people during the exhibit dates. 

“We are thrilled to partner again with the Botanical Conservatory to highlight Talitha Shipman’s imaginative storytelling,” said Jacki Fulwood, ACPL Youth Services Manager. “Pairing her new book with this exhibit creates a magical opportunity for families to read together, then experience the story come alive in a whole new way.” 

The donated books are part of the ACPL’s circulating collection and available for checkout immediately with a library card. Cardholders may place holds online at acpl.info and pick up at their preferred branch. Additional copies of the book will be available for purchase at the Conservatory, though only ACPL copies include the complimentary admission passes. 

“This collaboration allows us to extend the joy of Fern’s Fairylight Express beyond the page,” said Nate Cardelli, Manager of the Botanical Conservatory. “We’re excited to welcome families to explore the exhibit and experience the story’s wonder firsthand.” 

For more information about the Botanical Conservatory’s Fern’s Fairylight Express exhibit, visit botanicalconservatory.org. To check out or place a hold on the book, search the ACPL catalog at acpl.info.