SARASOTA COUNTY – Sarasota County Libraries and Historical Resources (LHR) announces “The Personal Librarian,” by Victoria Christopher Murray and Marie Benedict, as the 2023 “One Book, One Community” selection. The book tells the story of Belle da Costa Greene, when, at age 26, was hired by financier and investment banker J. P. Morgan for his newly built Pierpont Morgan Library. She became a fixture in New York City society and one of the most powerful people in the art and book world, known for her impeccable taste and shrewd negotiating for critical works to create a world-class collection. However, da Costa Greene had a secret; she was not born as Belle da Costa Greene but Belle Marion Greener, the daughter of Richard Greener, the first black graduate of Harvard University and a well-known advocate for equality. Her complexion wasn’t dark because of her alleged Portuguese heritage that lets her pass as white, instead it was because she was African American.“She left a lasting legacy that truly enriched our county,” said LHR Director Renee Di Pilato. “This title was an obvious and crucial selection for the One Book program, which fosters the expression of ideas and the shared love of reading.” Throughout the years, the One Book committee has selected the title and hosted public events with the author and readers. The selections have recognized local authors, as well as national and world-renowned writers. This annual celebration includes follow-up programs at county libraries and other venues. The entire community can participate by attending a library event or hosting their own book discussion. For the 2023 One Book season, one of the authors of “The Personal Librarian,” Victoria Christopher Murray, will be speaking on Friday, March 3, at two separate events: 10:30 a.m., at Suncoast Technical College Conference Center, 4445 Career Lane, North Port, which is adjoined to the Shannon Staub Public Library.7 p.m., at Selby Public Library, 1331 First St., Sarasota. In addition, younger readers are also encouraged to participate by exploring companion books “Library Babies,” by Puck, “Miss Moore Thought Otherwise,” by Anne Carol Moore, and “Library on Wheels” by Jan Pinborough. “All of our selections illustrate the various ways libraries can connect with people and communities,” Di Pilato added. For more information call 311 or visit scgov.net. Sarasota County prohibits discrimination in all services, programs or activities. View the complete policy at scgov.net (keywords: ADA compliance). |