The USA 250 book collection features influential works, authors, and documents that shaped U.S. history and reflect the diversity of the American experience.

This collection is intended to offer a curated sampling, featuring books like: 

The Federalist Papers

Authors: Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, & John Jay

The Federalist Papers were a series of essays written by James Madison, Alexander Hamilton, and John Jay under the pseudonym "Publius." The essays were written October 1787-August 1788, and were intended to build public and political support for the newly constructed Constitution which was sent to the States for ratification in September 1787, following the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia. The Federalist Papers represented only one facet in an on-going debate about what the newly forming government in America should look like and how it would govern. Although it is uncertain precisely how much The Federalist Papers affected the ratification of the Constitution, they were considered by many at the time—and continue to be considered—one of the greatest works of American political philosophy. Information on this book was pulled from the Library of Congress.

The Weary Blues

Author: Langston Hughes

Langston Hughes was one of the greatest poets of the Harlem Renaissance, a literary and intellectual flowering that fostered a new black cultural identity in the 1920s and 1930s. His poem The Weary Blues, also the title of this poetry collection, won first prize in a contest held by Opportunity magazine. After the awards ceremony, the writer and photographer Carl Van Vechten approached Hughes about putting together a book of verse and got him a contract with his own publisher, Alfred A. Knopf. Van Vechten contributed an essay, “Introducing Langston Hughes,” to the volume. The book laid the foundation for Hughes’s literary career, and several poems remain popular with his admirers. Information on this book was pulled from the Library of Congress.

The Modern Navajo Kitchen

Author: Alana Yazzie

Nourish yourself with these recipes celebrating Navajo culinary traditions. This cookbook ties together traditional Navajo recipes and global recipes with a Navajo spin, creating a truly unique culinary experience! Incorporating traditional and modern ingredients, some of the deliciously nourishing and comforting recipes include: Navajo Boba Milk Tea (Abe' Boba De'e'hk'azi') Fry Bread (Dah Díníilghaazh) and Navajo Burgers (Atsį' Yik'ą' Na'neeskadi' Bił Ałch'į' A't'e'hi'). It also includes instructions for how to make such things as juniper ash, roasted cornmeal, and roasted chiles that will bring your Navajo cooking skills to the next level. A short history of Navajo culinary traditions provides cultural context. Information on this book was pulled from ONIX Annotations. 

All the Way to America

Author: Dan Yaccarino

All it took was a man, a dream, and a very small shovel. The Italian immigrant came All the Way to America with his parents' reminders to 'Work hard, but remember to enjoy life, and never forget your family.' Three generations of Italians later, Yaccarino tells of how his family has fared in America since that day. The shovel has been handed down through the family's generations. Information on this book was pulled from BroDart. 

Esperanza Rising

Author: Pam Muñoz Ryan

Set against the backdrop of the Great Depression, Esperanza Rising follows a young girl who is forced to leave her privileged life in Mexico after a family tragedy. As she and her mother journey to California to work in migrant labor camps, she faces the harsh realities of poverty and discrimination. Through resilience and hope, she learns to embrace her new life, discovering the strength within herself and the power of community, ultimately transforming her perspective on wealth and happiness. Information on this book was pulled from TheGreatestBooks.org.

Bee-bim Bop!

Author: Linda Sue Park

Bee-bim Bop! refers to a dish of rice, egg strips, vegetables and meat that's a staple of Korean family life and it's a lot of fun to eat, too, because diners get to mix the parts together themselves right at the table. (The words in Korean mean, loosely, 'mix-mix rice.') The title also inspires some bouncy rhymes. Loving depictions of the joys of being mom's sous-chef are created by South Korean artist Ho Baek Lee. First, the necessary supplies are laid in. A flurry of rice-making, chopping and frying follows. The entire family, including a grandmother in traditional dress, gathers to say grace and dig in. Information on this book was pulled from BroDart. 

Books from the collection are traveling around the county, so check back at your YCFLD library often to see what’s new!

Make History! We want YOU to help us decide what will be included in the county’s time capsule. 

Whether it’s technology, photos, books, or any other type of 3D object, we’d love to hear your ideas! This time capsule is for Yavapai County and its residents, so we want to include the things that matter most to you. Fill out the survey today and share your suggestions!

Time Capsule Stats 48" tall 40" wide 16" depth Stainless Steel Time Capsule Burial To be buried the week of July 4, 2026. To be opened 50 years from now, during America's 300th Anniversary in 2076. What's Included? Your Suggestions! Click the link below to take the short survey. To make room for as many items as possible, each item will be no larger than 10" x 10" x 10". *Suggestions will be vetted by Library District staff and chosen items will be announced in July.

Discover how Yavapai County communities came to be what they are today through Hands-on History Presentations!

YCFLD branches are partnering with local historians and groups, helping us use our shared past to shape a strong, vibrant future.

• Connect with historians from across Yavapai County.

• Experience engaging presentations on local culture & history.

Try your hand at colonial-era entertainment with Hands-on History games & crafts.

Congratulations to our Library Card Design Winners! 

During a library card design competition held in 2025, county residents submitted designs for USA 250 library cards. The winning designs are printed on limited-edition library cards that are now available through 2026 for America's 250th Anniversary.

Yavapai County Residents can now...

• Swap an old library card for a fresh new design

• Pick your favorite design when you sign up for a new library card

Winning Designs

	Artist: Livvie Garrett Winner: Ages 5-8 Category
	Artist: Easton Horne Winner: Ages 9-12 Category
	Artist: Marissa Apodaca Winner: Ages 13-17 Category
	Artist: Ashley McNew Winner: Adult Category
	Artist: Nora Muse Winner: Digital Category

Pick up your new card at one of the following locations: 

Thank you to everyone who participated in the competition!

Dive into two dynamic, interactive maps on our digital kiosk to experience our nation’s story in a whole new way!

Our interactive kiosk is touring locations all across Yavapai County throughout 2026, catch it at your local YCFLD branch and dive into the inventions and literature that built America. 

Can’t wait for the kiosk to visit your library? Jump into the maps now by using the links below.

Map of Foundational American Inventions

• Discover groundbreaking American inventions that have transformed everyday life in big and small ways.

• Explore how innovations from the United States have shaped everything from serious technology to fun, daily conveniences.

Map of Foundational Books

• Discover iconic U.S. books, authors, and historic documents that have shaped the nation's story.

• Explore diverse literary works reflecting the full range of the American experience.

Kiosk Tour Schedule

Explore the Past at Your Library!

Beginning in June, you can experience 250 years of history by visiting your local library to explore Timeline Murals, which will be on display for the remainder of the year.

Discover 250 years of American history alongside the rich story of your local community.

• Uncover fascinating local facts—each library features unique highlights from its own corner of Yavapai County.

• See how Arizona & America has grown—follow the journey of local and national milestones that shaped the past 250 years.

• Come see how your hometown’s story connects to America’s timeline—right at your library!

Challenge Young Minds to Explore the Meaning of America’s 250th Anniversary

The America 250th Essay Contest is open to all Yavapai County residents in grades 4-12. Student participants will reflect on the historical significance of the Semiquincentennial, and engage with our nation’s history, values, and achievements through essay prompts. 

Accepting Submissions now through March 31, 2026

Announcing Winners by May 1, 2026

Submission Categories:^*

• Grades 4-6 (300-500 words)

• Grades 7-9 (500-750 words)

• Grades 10-12 (500-750 words)

Winners will receive:

• $50 Gift Card

• Commemorative America 250 Certificate of Achievement

• Recognition at an American 250 Community Event

• Publication Opportunities (such as, a commemorative USA 250 book, placement within the time capsule, or online)

*Please see our essay contest rules for full details. USA250 Student Essay Contest Rules (2026)

Celebrate America’s rich quilting traditions by joining our hands-on Community Quilt Project.

Contribute your own handcrafted square to help create a unique community quilt for your local library, each branch will proudly display its finished quilt for visitors to enjoy for years to come! 

Expert quilters from the Sassy Sewing Sisters of Seligman will guide you through each step in these fun, skill-building workshops. 

If you’d like to support the project further, we’re happily accepting fabric donations to help make each quilt even more special.