September’s Director’s Note

For the last Mystery Book Club meeting at the end of August, we were fortunate enough to have the author virtually visit as we discussed his featured title, A Calamity of Souls. In a very interesting conversation, David Baldacci talked about how life-changing reading was for him. Baldacci’s Wish You Well Foundation, which he runs with his wife Michelle, works to combat illiteracy in the United States. In discussing the importance of reading, one comment he made in particular has been resonating with me ever since; he said, “reading builds empathy.” Isn’t that what we need more than ever right now? In books, we meet characters (and real people) both like us and unlike us. It is a safe space to understand another’s point of view, to delve into the complexity of being human. There are no algorithms making sure we read only what we already know or believe.

Libraries remain the safe place where community members can read widely and deeply. A place of discovery to think and learn and grow. A place to build empathy. As we move into fall and school starts again, we celebrate the idea that censorship has no place here. And while we don’t formally observe Banned Books Week until early October, we are already observing those ideals with events throughout September. A Banned Books Yoga program where we will read challenged books in community (while doing yoga!) and a film and discussion program are on the September calendar. Be sure to check them out.

In addition to our Banned Books programs, we also have lots of fall fun coming up at the Library, not the least of which is our Good Neighbor Day celebration on September 27. We’ll celebrate the season with cider, donuts, games and other activities and we encourage everyone to come out and meet their neighbors! Stay tuned for more on that event for all ages coming soon!

Happy Reading,

-Cynthia