Historical Presentation - Dr. Chandler's Birds Gone Wild

It's true that Arizona once had the largest single collection of ostriches in the world. Do you know how long have ostriches been in the state? Why were other countries so jealous of our birds? Where did they all go? And, what‘s the story behind the Great Arizona Ostrich Drive of November 1914?
Arizona author & historian Janelle Molony gets into the morbid, juicy, and fascinating details in this laughter-packed presentation, sponsored by the Friends of the Payson Library on Monday, November 16, 2026, 10:00am. Free to attend! (Features PG content, weird science, and one T-Rex appearance.)
The Library Friends of Payson (LFOP) is a non-profit group that supports the Payson Public Library located at 328 N McLane Rd, Payson, AZ. They fund books, programs, and building updates. To support this organization and the pursuit of of excellent programs and resources, please visit libraryfriendsofpayson.org and consider a donation or membership.
About the author:
Janelle Molony is a prolific nonfiction writer with stories about Women, Wars & the West. Her work promotes the active preservation of women's voices and the equitable representation of their perspectives on matters of U.S. history. Molony creates vibrant YouTube content and has garnered a fun and friendly following as the “Hottie Historian.” Author Official: JanelleMolony.com
About the related book:
Birds Gone Wild (And Other Stories of Arizona Ostrich Ranching) is a pop-history of the state's most unique livestock and the political competition, fashion demands, and scientific discoveries that emerged from the industry. It is a humorous nonfiction, suitable for ages 12+. Signed copies will be available for sale at the event. (Currently, the Payson Public Library has one copy in circulation.)