Ackley Library Hosts Celebration of Classic Iowa Kids Show

Program to feature history of beloved TV puppet Floppy the Dog

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

The Ackley Public Library will host a special program on Monday, March 23rd at 6 p.m. called 'Where's Floppy? Celebrating an Iowa Television Icon'. The free event will feature broadcaster and historian Jeff Stein discussing the history of the beloved children's TV show The Floppy Show, which aired for 30 years on WHO-TV13 and featured ventriloquist Duane Ellett and his puppet partner Floppy the dog.

Why it matters

The Floppy Show was a beloved part of many Iowans' childhoods, with the catchphrase 'Where's Floppy?' becoming a cultural touchstone. The program's long-running success and enduring popularity highlight the power of local television to create shared experiences and community connections, especially for younger audiences.

The details

The presentation will include video highlights and vintage interviews with Ellett. Stein's book and DVD collections featuring the program will be available for purchase following the event. The program is sponsored by Friends of the Library and Humanities Iowa.

  • The Floppy Show aired for 30 years on WHO-TV13 in Iowa.
  • The Ackley Public Library event will take place on Monday, March 23rd, 2026 at 6 p.m.

The players

Jeff Stein

A broadcaster and historian who will host the 'Where's Floppy?' program at the Ackley Public Library.

Duane Ellett

The ventriloquist who brought the puppet Floppy the dog to life on the long-running children's TV show The Floppy Show.

Ackley Public Library

The library hosting the event celebrating the history of the classic Iowa children's television program.

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What’s next

The program at the Ackley Public Library on March 23rd will include the opportunity to purchase Stein's book and DVD collections featuring highlights from The Floppy Show.

The takeaway

This event celebrates the enduring legacy of a classic Iowa children's television program that brought joy and shared experiences to generations of viewers across the state.