The House on Mango Project
"Read, Connect, Celebrate: The House on Mango Project" is a community-centered initiative inspired by The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros. Designed to celebrate the diversity of Lincoln, NE—particularly the experiences of New Americans—the project weaves together literature, art, and dialogue. Linked2Literacy is partnering with The Lied Center for Performing Arts, Sheldon Museum of Art, Lincoln City Libraries, and local cultural organizations. Activities will feature book giveaways, staged readings, community discussions, an author event, and creative art and writing opportunities, all rooted in themes from the book.
Kick-Off Event
September 12th, 2025
5:30-7:30 pm
Lied Center Commons
North 12th & Q Street
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Linked2Literacy presents a citywide celebration inspired by The House on Mango Street. Join us Sept. 12 for live performances, cultural food trucks, and community resources, with more events continuing through June 2026. Come celebrate books, art, and connection across Lincoln!​
RSVP on Facebook HERE
Staged Reading
November 8th 2025
2:00 pm & 7:30 pm
Johnny Carson Theater
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Local actors will bring the novel to life. This immersive performance invites the audience to experience the story’s themes in a powerful, engaging way that goes beyond the page.
Ticket sales coming soon.
Book Mark Contest
February - April 2026
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This is a community art and literacy contest for all ages to design bookmarks that answer the question "What does being American mean to you?" The winning creations will be printed and shared in libraries, schools, and community spaces to inspire reading and connection for America's 250th birthday celebration.
Community Converstations
February and April 2026
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A chance to come together, share stories, and reflect on themes from The House on Mango Street. Join us at libraries and cultural centers across Lincoln for book discussions, creative writing, and art that lift up diverse voices and celebrate what belonging means in our community.
Author Visit
Spring 2026
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Don’t miss your chance to hear Sandra Cisneros, author of The House on Mango Street, live on the Lied Main Stage! She’ll dive into identity, culture, and storytelling — and answer your questions in a special audience Q&A.
First Friday
Spring 2026
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​Join us for First Friday to witness art inspired by the House on Mango Street. Artistic reflections of conversations had throughout this project.
Community Partners
Lied Center for Performing Arts
Sheldon Museum of Art
Lincoln City Libraries
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Local Bookstores
Local Community Cultural Centers
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This project was supported in part by the National Endowment for the Arts.
To find out more about how National Endowment for the Arts grants impact individuals and communities, visit www.arts.gov.