A library mouse and pigeons that poop were among the visitors during Kutztown University’s 18th annual children’s literature conference.

Through Sam, a library mouse, author and illustrator Daniel Kirk emphasizes the joy of reading and writing.

His books include “Library Mouse,” “Dogs Rule!” and “Cat Power.”

Kirk was one of the featured speakers for the conference which also celebrated the sesquicentennial (150 years) of the university.

Jonathan Bean, who grew up in Fleetwood, emphasizes images and how important they are in telling a story.

He is the author and illustrator of numerous books, including “At Night,” “Big Snow,” “The Apple Pie that Papa Baked” and “Building Our House.”

Kutztown readers recognize familiar landmarks, including the KU clock tower in the “Big Snow.”

Featured also was Caldecott medal winning illustrator/author Emily Arnold McCully, author of “Mirette on the High Wire,” and Andrea Davis Pinkney, bestselling and award-winning author of many books for children and young adults, including “Rhythm Ride: A Road Trip Through the Motown Sound,” “Let it Shine: Stories of Black Women Freedom Fighters” “Sojourner Truth’s Step-Stomp Stride,” and “Duke Ellington.”

Other authors included KU professor Kevin McCloskey, who mixes “…humor, well-researched facts and artistry” to deliver the straight poop on pigeons in “The Real Poop on Pigeons.”

The conference was a collaborative initiative involving Kutztown’s faculty and staff to provide current and future educators the opportunity to experience the work of award-winning authors and illustrators.