NEW HANOVER COUNTY — Annually, New Hanover County kicks off a summer-reading initiative centered around a theme to promote connectivity and inclusivity.
This year the central theme is around music.
A joint effort from New Hanover County Public Library, Office of Diversity and Equity, and Friends of the Library, “Read Across the County” features four titles specified to various age groups. It highlights music as “a tool to bring people of different backgrounds and abilities together,” according to a release from the county.
“Music is truly something everyone can relate to, and these books do an amazing job of telling that story. It’s a message we feel can reverberate for readers of all ages,” chief diversity and equity officer Linda Thompson said.
Books include:
- Adult read: “The Violin Conspiracy,” by southeastern North Carolina author Brendan Slocumb
- Young adult: “You, Me, and Our Heartstrings,” Melissa See
- Middle grade: “A Duet for Home,” by Karina Yan Glaser
- Young children: “Listen,” by Shannon Stocker
There are events also taking place June through August, to coincide with each selected title. It includes a class with the Brooklyn Arts Music Academy teaching the fundamentals of violin playing, a violin concert with Adam Crane, and American Sign Language (ASL) story time with Daisy Wooten and members of the Wilmington Symphony. A full calendar can be found here.
The summer-long program will conclude Aug. 26, with a visit from Slocumb for a discussion about his work and underlying themes. It will take place at Northeast Library (1241 Military Cutoff Road), 2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m., with registration opening in July.
All titles are available for check-out through the New Hanover County Public Library; additional copies are being distributed throughout the county with help from community partners.
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