February 2026 Programming… fascinating topics this month

Kittie Wilkins: The Remarkable Life of the West’s Premier Horse Breeder and Businesswoman

Saturday, February 7, 2026, 1 – 2:30 pm, *90 Minute Program (talk & Q&A), Nevada History – On The GO!

Richard Dorman, historian and geologist, will talk about Kittie Wilkins: The Remarkable Life of the West’s Premier Horse Breeder and Businesswoman.

Kittie Wilkins was an extraordinary woman whose life defied the conventions of her time. Born in the American West, she received a consistent education despite her family’s frequent relocations to various boomtowns, where her father, J.R. Wilkins, established businesses serving mining communities. After devastating fires destroyed their ventures in Boise, Idaho, and Tuscarora, Nevada, the Wilkins family settled in the Bruneau Valley along the Snake River. They established a ranch that raised cattle and horses, and Kitty would take the ranch’s horse breeding, training, and sales operations. She became the most prominent horse breeder and stock saleswoman in the West, amassing a fortune and earning widespread recognition.

Richard H. Dorman is a man of many passions, including history, music, theater, and geology—interests he enthusiastically shares with others. His deep fascination with the history of Jarbidge, Nevada, and the last stagecoach mail robbery led him to uncover and revive the stories of several women whose contributions had long been overlooked or forgotten.

We want to thank our community partner, Sierra View Library, for hosting this free series at 4001 S. Virginia Street, Reno, NV 89502. 

Here and Hereafter: Nevada Voices on Life and the Great Beyond

Wednesday, February 11, 2026, from 5:30 to 6:30 pm, doors open at 5 pm, Writers’ Wednesday – On The GO!

Pat Hickey, author and columnist, will talk about his book, Here and Hereafter: Nevada Voices on Life and the Great Beyond.

A profound exploration of human experience through the lens of those who call Nevada home. The book features in-depth conversations with notable Nevadans, including Harry Reid, Mike Tyson, Elaine Wynn, Brian Sandoval, Frankie Sue Del Papa, Oscar Goodman, Jill Tolles, Jon Ralston, and Sig Rogich. These interviews offer a unique perspective on life and the afterlife, challenging readers to contemplate the mysteries of existence. This book is not only a thought-provoking read but also a testament to Pat Hickey’s skill and sensitivity in capturing the voices and stories that shape the Silver State.

Pat Hickey, a former Republican Assembly Leader and columnist for the Reno Gazette-Journal, has been a ski bum, reporter, education advocate, and a proud parent and grandparent. His book was based on interviews conducted during the COVID-19 lockdown period, where he sought to understand the thoughts of a diverse group of Nevadans on life after death.

Thanks to our community partner, Knights of Pythias, for hosting this free program at 980 Nevada Street, Reno, NV 89503.

Hair, Makeup, and Me

Thursday, February 19, 2026, at Noon, High Noon virtual series on Zoom

Jan Loverin, Curator of Clothing and Textiles, Nevada State Museum, Carson City, will be our guest speaker as she will talk about Hair, Makeup, and Me.

Putting on your face, or applying makeup, is an activity most women and some men do daily. Curator, Jan Loverin, explores a brief history of this ritual and its meanings – from protecting our eyes from sun glare, to understanding the significance of “lip candy,” to disparate challenges due to skin color – makeup is an integral part of culture and society. This, along with developments in the hair care industry, generates an engaging lecture that provides background, understanding, and insight into the importance of appearance.

Loverin is the curator of clothing and textiles at the Nevada State Museum. She and her colleagues have produced numerous exhibits over the years, including “Silver Ladies in Golden Splendor,” while conducting research and regularly changing costumes and textiles in the museum’s galleries. Loverin is a member of the Costume Society of America and the International Council of Museums Costume Committee and has presented articles and papers for both organizations. She and her husband, Jim, have one son, and they live on the Old 1862 Ranch, where they are avid gardeners. 

⁠Make sure to register for this free, virtual Zoom lecture. Here is the link: https://events.washoecountylibrary.us/event/15493124