Why wait another 50 years for a bicentennial, when you can celebrate the sesquicentennial of Oregon's statehood? Even if you don't know the state song by heart, a birthday celebration is a great time to get familiar with Oregon history, and to explore some wonderful new and forthcoming books.

Why not get started with “The Oregon Blue Book?” Oregon's official state directory and fact book is published every two years by the State Archives, and is conveniently scheduled for a new release this March. Not only does it contain maps, almanacs, and a guide to the "official" state bird, flower and song, but it includes a whole section on Oregon history.

Coming up in April is “Oregon at Work: 1859-2009” by Tom Fuller and Art Ayre, from Ooligan Press. In honor of the sesquicentennial, the Oregon Employment Department has produced this commemorative book, which describes, documents and honors working Oregonians in three eras from statehood to the present. Included are fascinating personal narratives, historic photos, and accounts of native peoples' economy as well.

Just for lucky Salem residents, “Images of America: Salem” also by Tom Fuller, with co-author Christy Van Heukelem will be published in June. This is one of the popular series from Arcadia Press; tight, handy, little picture books of historic photos with well researched captions which cover many places in American history. Salem has been without a simple history book all these years, and the gap will finally be filled with this timely volume.

For fans of creative writing, Matt Love of the independent Oregon history press, Nestucca Spit Press, has edited an anthology, “Citadel of the Spirit: Oregon's Sesquicentennial Anthology.” The book’s release date was February 14, 2009, Oregon's official 150th birthday. (Has everyone noticed the heart on the Oregon State Seal?) Here are 63 essays by Oregon writers, past and present, and a nearly equal number of excerpts of documents from Oregon history.

If you want to follow the party on online, you can visit www.oregon150.org where you can find educational materials, a guide to upcoming events, and even share your personal story to participate in the celebration.