Featured Program
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Nancy McGinnis had the opportunity to talk with some of the organizers and participants involved in A Capital Read 2005. Her conversations give us a more personal look at the program and its impact in the community. Pete and Liz Harden relocated last January from North Carolina to Maine, arriving here during the worst blizzard of the winter. Being newcomers, and lifelong library users, they were happy to find their new library offering not only the usual materials to borrow, but also an opportunity to be part of A Capital Read and feel more familiar and at ease in their new neighborhood. They considered it an added bonus that the chosen title for 2005 was a “Maine” book, offering an insider’s perspective on lobstering as well as Maine small town life. “It was quite an experience to be welcomed inside the Governor’s mansion for the lobster bisque demonstration,” said Pete, who is legally blind but enjoyed the audio version of the book. “The library itself has a beautifully restored reading room. Once we learned about the community read and decided to participate, we got to socialize with folks and visit other places of interest around Augusta, where the programs were held.” “I liked the chance to hear what others had to say about The Lobster Chronicles,” added Liz. “And we were glad we arrived early for the evening with the author — before long every seat was taken. It was a treat to hear Linda Greenlaw read aloud from her work, and the impromptu question and answer session that followed was very entertaining.” Not everyone has the time they wish they had to enjoy books these days. “I used to read quite a lot,” said Lithgow Library patron Sammee Quong, “but looking back, I realize I’ve gradually drifted away from the habit of reading over the past few years.” She laments the hectic pace of life and the never-ending demands on her time and energy that preclude reading for pleasure. “But last year I did read the [Lithgow Library’s] Capital Read selection, A Walk in the Woods. I really enjoyed both the book — it was a quick read — and all the activities and connections around it. Thinking about the community reading program, I was really impressed. There were so many businesses and organizations sponsoring it or involved in it; the book was available for free; and the Library had gone to such lengths to put together such a well-rounded program with elements suitable for all ages. “Though the books are enjoyable, I have especially liked the ‘show and tell’ aspects of the community read. Being a visual learner, I prefer to see things for myself, and have people demonstrate how something works or how to do it. I still recall the presentation from last year about camping gear and especially wilderness food preparation. So this year, it was quite a contrast to attend the cooking demonstration at the Governor’s Mansion, where the First Lady and the Blaine House chef chatted about local foods and kitchen techniques while showing how to prepare lobster bisque.” “Here in Augusta, we are fortunate to have a wonderful chance to collaborate with other librarians, from a whole range of libraries, to put on the Capital Read, points out Sarah O’Sullivan, Lithgow Youth Services Librarian. “When you tap into a university library, a law library, and a hospital library as well as a municipal public library, that brings a wide variety of ideas and connections. We brainstormed together, and then followed through.” For example, medical doctors have been program presenters, not only lending their expertise and perspective, but by their participation, opening the public’s eyes to the fact that doctors are readers, too. Lithgow Library Director Betsy Pohl echoes this observation. “It’s been a very gratifying experience to work with other libraries — it has given us a chance to get to know and better appreciate each other’s services and collections, as well as the staff.” A community read also raises the visibility of the library or libraries participating in it, she points out. “I know we have reached some people who have not availed themselves of this library for some time — and some who set foot inside for the first time because of this community read initiative! “Our goal was to bring our rather diverse community together-commuters, university students, residents, those who do business or shop here — a wide range of individuals of all ages and backgrounds,” she continues. “We want to encourage everyone to dive into a good book and enjoy reading. We tried to select a title that is not necessarily an outstanding work of literature but a work of literary merit, that also lends itself to filling a void for arts programming in the community. “We’ve noticed that our patrons always pay attention to recommended books — ones that we spotlight in one fashion or another. People are hungry to see and hear authors, and to have literary events — even more so when programs and displays all relate to a recommended title. During a compressed period of time, we push the books and also push the programs. It’s tiring, but also very gratifying. The momentum builds, and people really seem to get into it!” Here are some tips that the organizers of A Capital Read have for anyone thinking of starting their own community read program:
– Nancy McGinnis |