World Book Night 2014 at Railroad Park

On Wednesday, April 23, 2014, I had the privilege of participating for the second time as a Book Giver for World Book Night. After having done this last year and having had so much fun spreading the love of reading, I knew I would apply to do it again this year . . . and got my wish.

As the Department Head of the Fiction Department of the Birmingham Public Library, I was delighted when a fellow staff member in the department cheerfully volunteered to assist. Bruce Seals and I set out mid-day (After all, on any given day it is nighttime somewhere in the world!) on Wednesday, April 23, to a relatively new park in downtown Birmingham—Railroad Park. We had the best time giving out 20 copies of Bobcat and Other Stories by Rebecca Lee. The crowd there was diverse and seemed quite happy to be enjoying a beautiful day with the city center skyline on the nearby horizon. Their joy doubled when they found themselves to be part of an amazing world-wide event, and a free book only added to their pleasure. We encouraged them to visit the Birmingham Public Library at any of its 19 locations and to be sure to take advantage of the upcoming Summer Reading programs that are geared for everyone—children, teens and adults (Yes, Summer Reading at the library is no longer just for kids.).

When all the books were gone and we were through, we looked at each other and asked, “Is this work?” Thankfully library service is always fun whether within the building, or in outreach and especially when involved with a special event like World Book Night.

Come to the library and join in the fun!

To learn more about World Book Night visit www.us.worldbooknight.org.

David Blake
Fiction Department
Central Library