There’s an opportunity afoot for Valley readers! Following the success of five years of Community Read initiatives, the Community Foundation, together with the Staunton Public Library, the Augusta County Library, and the Waynesboro Public Library, is working to plan the 2013 One Book One Community.
Since 2008, the annual novel of choice has been picked by the organizers. This year, things will be different. Sarah Skrobis, a librarian at the Augusta County Library, explains, “Every March, we have all these library patrons who come up to us with questions about how the novel of the year was selected and excellent suggestions for the next year. In response, we decided to change the process for 2013 and give everyone a voice.”
A committee was involved this year to narrow down the choices, but the group tried hard to put together a list that includes something for everyone. “We’ve selected a classic, a nonfiction narrative, and an intergenerational bestseller, among others,” commented Melissa Davidson, the Adult Services Librarian at the Staunton Public Library. Mary Ann Hayden, a librarian with the Waynesboro Public Library added, “Making the choice every year is challenging. We are looking forward to getting community input and letting the actual participants of the Community Read decide.”
Throughout the month of September, paper ballots will be available at all library locations. In addition, the community is encouraged to vote online at the One Book One Community website, www.SAWCommunityRead.org.
The final selection for the 2013 One Book One Community will be announced in October.
Christiana Shields, Director of Non-Profit Services for the Community Foundation, summarized the plan.
“The ultimate objective of this project is not only encouraging people to read, but getting the entire community involved in a literacy project that will span multiple generations. By kicking things off for the 2013 Community Read with a ballot and online vote, it becomes even more of a community project.” The 2013 One Book One Community will take place throughout the month of March 2013.
Once again, free copies of the chosen book will be given away to the community, and events will take place throughout Staunton, Augusta County and Waynesboro. Donations to support the program are necessary and much appreciated, and may be sent to the Community Foundation, P.O. Box 815, Staunton, VA, 24402.
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Chris Graham
