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The Great American Read at the Scotch Plains Public Library
Scotch Plains Public Library receives The Great American Read programming grant from ALA and PBS
The Scotch Plains Public Library will receive a grant from the American Library Association (ALA) and PBS to host programs around The Great American Read, an eight-part television series and multi-platform initiative that celebrates the joy of reading and the books we love.
“We are excited to bring The Great American Read to Scotch Plains,” said Michelle Willis, library director. “This grant from ALA and PBS will bolster our opportunities to engage with the book lovers in our community, both in the library and out at township events this summer and fall.”
More than 220 public libraries applied for the $2,000 grants, which will support public programs around the series. Scotch Plains Public Library was one of just 50 libraries nationwide to be selected.
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In addition to the grant money, Scotch Plains Public Library will receive a DVD collection of the series with public performance rights; a hardcover copy of the companion book, “The Great American Read: The Book of Books” by PBS (Black Dog & Leventhal, August 21, 2018); and other resources.
The Library will also have the opportunity to host “sneak peek” screenings of the series premiere and five theme episodes before they broadcast to the public.
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Premiering May 22, The Great American Read will engage audiences with a list of 100 diverse books, encouraging audiences to read the books, vote from the list of 100, and share their personal connections to the titles.
The two-hour launch episode will kick off a summer of reading and voting. In fall 2018, seven new episodes will air, featuring appearances by celebrities, athletes, experts, authors and everyday Americans advocating for their favorite book, culminating with a finale that reveals America’s best-loved novel as chosen by the American public.
The Library’s will host a kickoff celebration on Thursday, May 24 at 7pm. Attendees can discuss their initial thoughts about The Great American Read series and the list of 100 books. Light refreshments will be served. Registration is required. For more information about this and other events, visit www.scotlib.org/.
The Scotch Plains Public Library is located at 1927 Bartle Avenue, one block from Park Avenue in the center of town.
