Jennie Buchanan, along with Ken and Nancy Cox, will present a program titled “The Arts of the Holidays” to the Coffee Cup Bunch of the Friends of the Library at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 5 at the Altus Public Library. The program will explore some of the music and art that has long been associated with the holiday season.

Using information from Ace Collins’ Stories Behind the Greatest Hits of Christmas, Buchanan will share the stories behind secular favorites, such as: Jingle Bells, Winter Wonderland, I’ll Be Home for Christmas, White Christmas, and There’s No Place Like Home for the Holidays. “As I began to put this program together, I knew that we couldn’t just talk about the songs; they needed to be sung. And, who better to perform them than Ken and Nancy Cox?” Buchanan explained. “We are indeed fortunate to have two talented musicians who are so willing to share their talents with us. Be ready for solos, duets, and sing-alongs!”

In addition, the program will include visual treats. “Tammy Davis and other members of the library staff have prepared a ‘backdrop’ for Ken and Nancy’ performances by reproducing Currier and Ives prints which provide a great panorama of young America,” Buchanan continued. “I have recently become reacquainted with the work of Currier and Ives, the Printmakers to the People, and thought our group would enjoy revisiting these excellent records of vanished American customs and scenes.”

“The December program is the last program of the Coffee Cup year and has traditionally been one of the ways we all get into the holiday spirit,” explained Buchanan, who is also the program chair for the group. “I encourage all our members to attend and bring a guest! You’re sure to enjoy the sights and sounds of the season!”

The Coffee Cup programs are free and open to the public.