You Don’t Have to Be an Avid Reader to Get Involved with Malden Reads

It was the end of July, 2010 when several people met at the Malden Public Library to discuss the possibility of a Malden Reads: One City, One Book project. As I sat around a table with the Library’s Executive Director Dina Malgeri, Assistant Director Donna Alger, and members of the Friends of the Library, YWCA, and Oak Grove Improvement Association, all avid book readers professing their love of books, I kept thinking, “I’m not going to say it, I’m not going to tell them.”

We went around the table introducing ourselves, giving our reasons why we wanted to be involved with the project. It was my turn. Again, I kept thinking “OK, Carol, just talk about community. Avoid any discussion about books and authors.”

Sitting across the table from me was Dina, who I had just met that evening. As I began to speak about why I wanted to be involved, that it was about getting the community together, I couldn’t contain myself. I looked across the table and said, “Well I’m probably not going to heaven for saying this in the library but “I’m not a reader.”

There was a silence (which seemed to me like an eternity). I thought, “Well, I said it. That’s it. I’m done. They won’t understand. I don’t fit in and I have just ostracized myself from this project."

Then all of a sudden everyone began to laugh. Whew, it was okay!

You see, you don’t have to be an avid reader to participate Malden Reads. Even though this group’s love of books is apparent, they also share my love of community and appreciate the different ways in which any one of us chooses to participate in this project: sharing time, talents, resources, or ideas.  

Some of my most cherished memories with my son are sitting with him and reading a story. I remember watching his reaction and seeing his excitement with the pictures as I turned each page. My interaction with him and the true joy I felt as he started to recognize words are memories of the heart which will always be with me.  I wish for you the same and more.  

There are wonderful children’s books that are associated with the Malden Reads project: "Mole Music" and "The Teddy Bear," both by David McPhail (Grades Pre-K - 2), "How To Steal A Dog" by Barbara O'Connor (Grades 3 - 7), and "Money Hungry" by Sharon Flake (Grades 7 -9).

My son is off to college now and I recently have found some extra time to do something I have not done in years. Yes, I, the non-reader, read "The Soloist: A Lost Dream, an Unlikely Friendship, and the Redemptive Power of Music" by Steve Lopez, the adult book selection for Malden Reads.

Really, I had planned on watching the movie, but I started reading the book, and before long, I found myself carrying it wherever I went. Any chance I got, I read another page. I feel like I now have a few new friends, whom I will never meet, but who have touched my life.

As we work on the plans for the kick-off event for Malden Reads, I walk into what I call the historical section of the Malden Public Library, where the event is taking place on Feb. 24. This section is the original library that I used when I was in high school. I am reminded of a favorite song by James Taylor, "You’ve Got a Friend."  This library holds memories for me and, now, because of this project, I have rediscovered a new appreciation for this wonderful old building.

I became involved with this project in order to help, but I am the one who has been enriched. I can honestly say what a wonderful experience this is. I have had the pleasure of watching total strangers come together and share their talent and time for their community.

There are upcoming activities planned throughout the city based upon the themes of The Soloist. Here are a few examples: book discussions; a “Stone Soup” service project for children; a panel discussion on journalism; tours of the library (including the gorgeous section of the original building); a community discussion on "Hunger, Homelessness, and Chronic Mental Illness in our Community”; and the main event: a community performance to be held at Malden High School’s Jenkins auditorium.

Oh, and by the way, for my fellow “non-readers” there’s even two showings of the movie. Maybe I’ll see you there!

Stay tuned to www.maldenreads.org  to see how you can join in.

Carol Melle is the President of Oak Grove Improvement Association, an all-volunteer group founded in 1897, and a member of the Malden Reads Committee.