Children and adults are invited to listen, feel and see the past, present and future of the magnificent bison at the Stillwater Public Library on Tuesday, Oct. 22, at 6:30 p.m.  Through stories and pictures, Sandy Tharp, Iowa Tribe Library Director, will present “The Iowa Tribe Traveling Education Bison Program,” which explains the story of the bison’s history and near extinction.

“At one point, the buffalo almost became extinct,” said Tharp. “But people came together to rebuild the herds.  Groups like the Iowa Tribe are using DNA testing and other methods to build strong, healthy herds.”

The Iowa’s herd, which currently includes about 65 buffalo, is part of a Bison and Cattle Program which was developed to restore the tribe’s spiritual values, cultural beliefs and practices and to strengthen ecological restoration, agricultural and economic development and educational development.

In a format, entertaining to both children and adults, Tharp will discuss the current and future status of the Iowa tribe’s buffalo program, describe how Native people use bison and share amazing trivia about buffalo.

“Children will especially be enthralled by some of the ‘yuckier’ facts about Bison,” said Elizabeth Murray, children’s librarian.  “For instance, buffalo dung was once used for baby powder.  This program is a fascinating and valuable learning experience and a unique opportunity to better understand the culture of one of our local tribes.”

The program is free and open to all ages.  Families are especially encouraged to attend.