The National Center for Children’s Illustrated Literature (NCCIL) is located in the Storybook Capital of the World. Our vision is to inspire and empower children to read and be creative, bringing stories to life by partnering with award-winning children’s picture book illustrators.

The NCCIL creates one-of-a-kind, hands on exhibitions that will captivate visitors of all ages, showcasing the artistry behind beloved picture books. Locally, the NCCIL is a hub of creativity offering guests the opportunity to meet visiting artists during exhibit openings, participate in FREE family art activities every Saturday, and annual artist workshops and book signings. The NCCIL also offers free guided exhibition tours for students from all over the region. After debuting in our gallery, exhibitions are available to embark on a nationwide tour, reaching museums, public libraries, and galleries across the country.