The Athens-Clarke County Library is one of just 50 libraries nationwide to receive a $2,000 grant from the American Library Association (ALA) and PBS to host programs related to The Great American Read, an eight-part television series and multi-platform initiative that celebrates the joy of reading and the books we love.
The library’s programs will begin in August. Each of the library’s five book clubs will lead discussions based on titles featured on The Great American Read list. Later in the fall, the library will partner with local nonprofit Rabbit Box for a special storytelling event associated with the series. In addition to the grant money, the 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. Premiering May 22 on PBS, The Great American Read engages 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. In the fall, 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. Visit PBS's Great American Read website to learn more and see the list of 100 books. Vote for your favorite book on the website, or use the hashtags provided there to vote on Facebook and Twitter. You can vote once per platform per day. Happy reading!
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Summer Reading programs are in full swing for children, teens and adults, but it's not too late to get started! Sign up today for Summer Reading. Attend programs, read books and win prizes! For more information, stop by the library or visit our Summer Reading page.
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Mary Kay Andrews: The High Tide Club
Wednesday, June 6, 6:00 p.m.
Appleton Auditorium
Avid Bookshop and the Library will partner to present an evening with New York Times bestselling author Mary Kay Andrews! Join us as we celebrate Andrews' 30th book, The High Tide Club. This novel is Mary Kay Andrews at her Queen of the Beach Reads best: a story shrouded in mystery, Spanish moss, veranda cocktails, 1940s dinner dances, love lost, and possibly love found. Books will be available for purchase and signing.
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Café au Libris: Rebecca Ross
Thursday, June 7, 6:00 p.m.
Appleton Auditorium
"He chose betrayal. She chooses vengeance." The Friends of Athens-Clarke County Library present an evening with Rebecca Ross, who will discuss her debut teen fantasy novel, The Queen's Rising. The book follows Books will be available for purchase and signing, and a reception will follow. For all ages.
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Café au Libris: Rebecca Shriver Davis
Sunday, June 10, 3:00 p.m.
Multipurpose Rooms
Author Rebecca Shriver Davis will discuss her book, Justice Leah Ward Sears: Seizing Serendipity. This is the first full biography of Justice Leah Ward Sears. In 1992, Sears became the first woman and youngest justice to sit on the Supreme Court of Georgia. In 2005, she became the first African American woman to serve as chief justice of any state supreme court in the country. A book signing and reception will follow. Sponsored by Friends of the Athens-Clarke County Library.
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Terry Brooks: The Skaar Invasion
Monday, June 25, 6:00 p.m.
Appleton Auditorium
Avid Bookshop and the Library present best-selling author Terry Brooks for his latest book, The Skaar Invasion. This is the second book of the epic four-part conclusion to the Shannara series from one of the acknowledged masters of the fantasy genre. Brooks has thrilled readers for decades with his powers of imagination and storytelling. He is the author of more than 30 books, most of which have been New York Times bestsellers. The event is free and open to the public, though to get in the signing line you must have purchased a copy of the featured book from Avid Bookshop. Avid will sell books onsite at the event.
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These are just a few of the exciting and informative programs at the library this month. For a full list of June programs for children, teens and adults, please visit our online calendar.
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Todd Key's Flying Debris Extravaganza Juggle-Palooza!
Thursday, June 7, 10:30 a.m.
Multipurpose Rooms
Are you looking for some amazing, juggling, magic fun? Todd Key is a one-man club throwing, ball spinning, ladder balancing, hilarious extravaganzapalooza! Don’t miss this awesome show! For children of all ages with caregiver.
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Kitty KaPow and Professor Whiskers
Thursday, June 14, 10:30 a.m.
Multipurpose Rooms A&B
From a far-away planet comes the most super-awesome-rock-star-band you’ve ever encountered: Kitty KaPow and her faithful sidekick Professor Whickers! Prepare to be dazzled by kid-friendly, dance-party tunes. Wear your favorite costume and join in the fun! For children ages 2-11 with caregiver.
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The Seeing Stick Shadow Puppet Show
Tuesday, June 19, 2:30 p.m.
Multipurpose Rooms
Once upon a time in China, there lived a little girl who couldn’t see. Discover how she finds her way in this shadow puppet version of the enchanting folktale, The Seeing Stick. Crafts and activity included. For children ages 4-11 with caregiver.
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Watercolors from Apples to Zebras: A GMOA workshop
Wednesday, June 6, 2:00-4:00 p.m.
Multipurpose Room B
Teens, sign up for this Just My Imagination workshop sponsored by the Georgia Museum of Art. The workshop introduces the world of watercolors by offering participants the opportunity to sketch, complete a contour drawing and paint a still life. Athens artist and teacher Jackie Slayton Methe will begin the workshop with a discussion about watercolors followed by a demonstration of techniques and brush strokes. Only 25 spots available! Pre-registration required; call the Teen Desk at (706) 613-3650, ext. 329.
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Teen Leadership & Volunteer Program
Wednesday, June 13, 3:00 p.m.
Multipurpose Room A
Interested in getting involved within your community? Join Ms. Cassidy on Wednesday, June 13th at 3:00 as she shares information on how youths can get more engaged within their community. Grades 6-12 only, please.What's in it for them?
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Become a Teen DJ!
Monday, June 25, 3:00 p.m.
Multipurpose Room A
Ever wondered what it takes to become a DJ? Join Ms. Mary from UGA’s Radio Station, WUOG 90.5 FM, as she shares tips and tricks on how to become a successful DJ! Teens will get an opportunity to participate in hands-on interactive activities such as learning how to mix music. Grades 6-12 only, please.
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The Heard: Live! @ the Library
Sunday, June 3, 3:00 p.m.
Appleton Auditorium
Join us for family-friendly acoustic entertainment with a toe-tapping blend of sing-along Americana, bluegrass, country, folk, gospel, original and rock tunes! Sponsored by the Friends of Athens-Clarke County Library.
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Kilaueu: Earth's Most Active Volcano
Thursday, June 7, 1:30 p.m.
Appleton Auditorium
Reflecting, Sharing, Learning and OLLI@UGA present a lecture on Kilaueu, the Hawaiian volcano that has been continuously erupting for 35 years! Featuring David Dallmeyer, Professor Emeritus of UGA's Geology Department.
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The Cobb Brothers in Athens
Wednesday, June 27, 6:00 p.m.
T.R.R. Cobb House, 175 Hill Street, Athens
Come to the T.R.R. Cobb House for a walking tour of one of Athens’ most distinctive homes, with talks by curator Sam Thomas and Cobb descendant Milton Leathers. Thomas and Howell Cobb, sons of Athens settlers John and Sarah Cobb, were among the most illustrious citizens Athens produced in the Civil War era. tell the story of Thomas and Howell Cobb and their relationship with Athens, and the “Pink Lady” house. Presented by Reflecting, Sharing, Learning. For information, call (706) 613-3650, ext. 343 or email vburns@athenslibrary.org.
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The poetry of Benjamin Milano
Saturday, June 30, 2:00 p.m.
Appleton Auditorium
Enjoy the celebration of local writer Benjamin Milano's new poetry book, Brincaron las Gallinas. Originally from Puerto Rico, Milano's poems are nostalgic, humorous, and full of memories of his youth and family life in Puerto Rico. The book is dedicated to the memory of his sister, whose art graces the pages of the book. The poems will be read in Spanish by the author himself, and Brett Swartz will read them in English. A discussion and reception will follow.
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Accordion Crimes
by Annie Proulx
Last Monday Book Group Monday, June 4, 7:00 p.m. Multipurpose Room C
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The Nightingale
by Kristin Hannah
Talking About Books Adult Discussion Group Wednesday, June 20, 10:30 a.m. Multipurpose Room C
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Half Magic
by Edward Eager
Children's Book Club Thursday, June 21, 4:00 p.m. Storyroom Stop by the Children's Department to reserve your spot and place a copy on hold. Limited to 10 children.
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The Lathe of Heaven
by Ursula K. Le Guin
Last Monday Book Group Monday, June 25, 7:00 p.m. Multipurpose Room C
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Just Kids
by Patti Smith
Libraries Rock! Book Discussion Thursday, June 28, 7:00 p.m. All adults welcome! In need of a copy of the book, see us at the 2nd floor Reference Desk! Multipurpose Room A
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