'Big Read' Booking its Way Back to Suburban Libraries

Something big is going on at the Downers Grove Public Library.

For the seventh year in a row, the facility joins nine other local libraries to offer the Big Read program, which encourages patrons to read the same book with the goal of promoting reading, sparking discussion, and building community.

This year’s book pick, Zeitoun by Chicago native Dave Eggers, tells the true story of a Syrian-born businessman who lived in New Orleans during Hurricane Katrina. He paddled through his town in a canoe offering help to his neighbors until one day he abruptly disappeared and was imprisoned as a suspected terrorist.

Debra Wordinger, head of adult services at Indian Prairie Public Library, said patrons look forward to the Big Read program each year. 

“People ask, ‘When does it start? What book did you pick?’” Wordinger said.

Last year’s Big Read selection drew such a large crowd at Indian Prairie, the book discussion had to be divided into two groups.

“We have a very good response in participation and interest,” Wordinger said.

Patrons can attend any of the nearly 40 programs, plus book discussions, scheduled during March and April at the 10 participating libraries, including Clarendon Hills, Downers Grove, Hinsdale, Indian Prairie, La Grange, La Grange Park, Lisle, Thomas Ford, Westmont and Woodridge.

Melissa Doornbos, publicity and program coordinator at the , said books are generally chosen that will lend themselves to good discussion and a variety of programming options.

In Zeitoun, Eggers highlights the tragedy of Hurricane Katrina and post–9/11 life for Arabs and Muslims in the United States, and reveals the incompetence of relief efforts sent to help the people of New Orleans.

“I think the discussion is going to be interesting,” Doornbos said. “The book has some controversial topics in it. It’s a good chance for people to get out there and express their opinions.”

While adults read Zeitoun, children are invited to participate in The Kids Read, Too! program, and read A Place where Hurricanes Happen by Renee Watson. An assortment of children’s events will also be held at all 10 participating libraries.

Join The Big Read by visiting one of the participating libraries to borrow a copy of Zeitoun. For those who prefer to own a copy of the book, purchase it at Anderson’s Bookshops in  or for a 10 percent discount. Anderson’s Book Club members and shoppers at Barbara’s Bookstore in Burr Ridge get a 20 percent discount, while customers at  in Darien receive a 25 percent discount.

Get details in the program guide, which can be found online at thebigread.org or pick one up at the Ask Us Desk. Get updates at twitter.com/bigread2011 or at facebook.com/thebigread.

The programs listed here are all taking place at Indian Prairie. Register online, in person at the Ask Us Desk, or by calling (630) 887-8760, Ext. 239.