The Johnson County Library will host an issues and engagement forum about the Kansas –Nebraska Act of 1854 on Thursday, February 16 at 6:30 p.m. at the Central Resource Library, 9875 W. 87th St., Overland Park, KS. This event is part of Johnson County Library’s 2011-2012 Legacies of the Civil War series.

Slavery or freedom forever: what was at stake in the Kansas-Nebraska Act? In 1854, President Franklin Pierce faced a choice that would have a profound impact on the future of the Unites States. Should he give settlers in Kansas and Nebraska the right to vote on whether slavery would be permitted, should be banned in the territories, or should he focus on practical considerations like the economy rather than moral rhetoric? Join fellow community residents to discuss how you would advise the president. To register please, call (913) 826-4600 or visit www.jocolibrary.org/civilwar.

For more information on the Legacies of the Civil War programs at Johnson County Library locations, visit www.jocolibrary.org/civilwar.   Library programs are free and open to the public. For more information call (913) 826-4600. Interpretive services and other accommodations for those with special needs are available by contacting Library staff at least one week in advance of the program.