Frequently Asked Questions
About Alamance Reads
Q: What is Alamance Reads?
A: Alamance Reads is a civic event designed to encourage reading and
significant conversation among Alamance County citizens by gathering
people around a common book and providing a shared reading experience.
We think this year's choice of book will span the generations of
Alamance County residents, with grandparents sharing their experiences
of the 1940s and 1950s with both their children and their grandchildren.
The 2008-2009 Alamance Reads will be the third time this event has taken
place in Alamance County.
Q: How is Alamance Reads funded?
A: Friends of the Alamance County Public Libraries, a nonprofit
501(c)(3) corporation, funds this program from money raised through the
annual book sales and other events. Additional support is offered
through various partnerships with local business and individual
contributors. All Alamance Reads events are free to the public.
Q: How is the book chosen?
A: In the early spring of the year the event is to be held, a volunteer
committee is formed to read, review, discuss programming opportunities
offered by each book, and hash out all aspects of answering the
question, "Which would be the best book/author for this year's community
read project?". This year's committee evaluated over 75 books based on a
specific list of criteria. From this intensive evaluation came the
choice of Blue.
Q: How are the programs developed?
A: Once the book selection committee has finished its task, a volunteer
program committee is formed that reviews all the programming
opportunities by the book, paying extra attention to creating programs
that will be of interest to everyone in the community. Subcommittees are
then formed to develop the individual program ideas and make them a
reality.
Q: How can I participate in
Alamance Reads?
A: There are numerous ways to be part of Alamance Reads...
As a reader
of the selected book.
As a program participant
Participate in events such as the cooking class, the writing contest,
the art contest, and the various other events. See our
Calendar of Events for more
information.
As a volunteer
Contact your local library or use the
Contact Alamance Reads page on our website to participate on a
committee or at a function.
As a donor
While Friends of the Library is the main supporter, additional financial
support is always appreciated.
As a member of Friends
of the Library For a mere $5 per individual or $10 per
family, you can become a supporter of the library and its program with
benefits like first day access at the annual book sales.
Q: Where can I get a copy of
this year's selection,
Blue?
A: All branches of the Alamance County Public Libraries will begin
selling hardback copies of Blue on Sunday,
August 24, 2008. Books will be available for $12. (Be sure to bring your
book to one of the author events to have it personally signed by the
author, Joyce Moyer Hostetter.)
Q: Will the library have any
Blue book club kits?
A: Yes, book club kits will be available starting Monday, August 25,
2008. Be sure to have your book club make a reservation as soon as
possible by calling (336) 229-3588.