Published Sunday, June 28, 2009

Central Library offering summer reading program for adults

Coweta's Central Library is holding its first annual Adult Summer Reading Program, running through July 31.

"Master the Art of Reading" is the theme of the program, which features special events and prize drawings throughout the summer. The Coweta Public Library System is teaming with with local businesses and West Georgia Technical College to offer the first Adult Summer Reading Program. The library hopes to hold the event each summer in the future.

The partnership "demonstrates a strong community effort in support of life long learning and belief in the importance of reading and the power of books to change lives," said Barbara Osborne-Harris, director of Coweta Public Library System.

"This is the beginning of a meaningful learning community relationship between public institutions and community businesses. It is important for us to pool our collective institutional resources for the betterment of our shared community," Osborne-Harris said.

Adults are encouraged to come to the library to pick up an information packet, which includes everything they need to participate. For each book they read, participants may submit an entry form at the library and be entered into weekly prize drawings as well as a grand prize.

There is no set list. Participants may read any books they choose, and both print and audiobooks qualify.

For those looking for reading suggestions, the program booklet contains themed reading lists and special displays are set up in the library's commons area. "Our goal in offering this program is to encourage adults to read," said Lesley Williams, adult services library associate.

While participants need to read only one book to participate, the more books they read, the more entries they can submit and the greater their chances of winning prizes. Weekly prizes were donated by several local area businesses.

The grand prize will be an original watercolor painting by Emmy White, one of the artists whose paintings are among the artwork featured at the Central Library.

Several cultural and literary events are scheduled for the summer. Open Mic Night will be July 8 at 6 p.m. Adults are encouraged to come to the library for an evening celebrating the spoken word.

Attendees may recite a poem, chosen from a selection of books from the library's collection, or share their own original work.

On July 18 at 2 p.m. there will be a Literary Afternoon Tea with bestselling author Joshilyn Jackson. Jackson will speak about her life, her books and the writing process, followed by a book-signing.

Jackson is the author of "Gods in Alabama," "Between, Georgia" and "The Girl Who Stopped Swimming."

All events are free and open to the public. RSVPs are recommended for the brunch and afternoon tea to ensure sufficient catering. Interested individuals may visit the library or contact them at 770-683-2052.