Fulton Libraries Using Book, Movie to Promote Literacy

The Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System received the 2013 Big Read grant, a program of the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA), in partnership with Arts Midwest, designed to revitalize the role of literature in American culture and to encourage citizens to read for pleasure and enlightenment.

A library system spokesperson said in a release that the goal of the libraries aligns perfectly with those of the Big Read: to stop the decline of literary reading in America by encouraging reading. This “one book/one community” opportunity offers everyone the chance to read and discuss a single book within their communities and is a wonderful chance for real dialog.

Participants throughout Fulton County and Atlanta will read the same book, A Lesson Before Dying by Ernest Gaines. This story of injustice and redemption addresses the theme of how one affirms life in the face of death. A Lesson Before Dying was also made into a movie, and there will be film screenings at many of the libraries branches during February and into March as well as other programs and events.

The Big Read: Film Screening of A Lesson Before Dying

• Thursday, Feb. 7. 4 p.m.
• Alpharetta Branch
• 238 Canton Street, Alpharetta 30009; for information call 770-740-2425

A Chat About A Lesson Before Dying with the author Ernest Gaines

• Tuesday, Feb. 26. 10:30 a.m.
• Chat with author Ernest Gaines live via satellite at the Fulton County Government building
• For reservations call 404-730-1807