Lafayette Reads Together begin today in Lafayette with the book Finding Gobi by Dion Leonard.
The community-wide reading program, from the Lafayette Public Libary, Lafayette Parish School System, and other local organizations, encourages community members to read and discuss featured books during the program which runs from January 14 to March 16.
KATC’s Abby Breidenbach was LIVE this morning at the Lafayette Public Library to find out more about the program and first book, Finding Gobi.
Free copies of the book will be made available at all Lafayette Library branches. Copies of the book can be purchased hereand here.
The book is about ultramarathon runner and author Dion Leonard’s encounter with a small dog while competing in the Gobi March, a grueling 250-kilometer race through China’s Gobi Desert. On the second stage of the marathon, he noticed the dog following him. The book is a “heartwarming tale about a little-lost dog and the seasoned runner who saved her,” a release from the library says.
A number of activities include “An Evening with Author Dion Leonard” on Tuesday, January 29 at the Main Library (6:15 – 7:30 pm). He will talk about his journey in Finding Gobi while running an ultramarathon in the Gobi Desert. Along the way, he discovered many things about himself and China. A book signing will follow.
Also on tap are the Finding Gobi book discussions. Special guest Christine Duay, LPSS Director of Early Childhood will bring along her service dog, Willow to aid in book discussions. Those discussions will take place on Monday, February 11 at the Main Library (6:30 – 7:30 pm) and Monday, February 18 at the South Regional Library (6:30 – 7:30 pm).
Library programs now through March 16 will include film showings, presentations, and programs for teens and children. Businesses and groups can also join this effort, simply by agreeing to have members read the book, and distributing books to employees or hosting programs.
Lafayette Reads Together is sponsored by the Lafayette Public Library Foundation. Community partners include the Lafayette Public Library System, Lafayette Parish School System, Lafayette Consolidated Government, Lafayette Utilities System, LUS Fiber, BBR Creative, Acadiana Center for the Arts, Asian Chamber of Commerce of Acadiana, Healthy Acadiana and AOC Community Media.
