The thirteenth annual Santa Monica READS community reading program will host a kickoff celebration this Saturday, Feb. 14, at 2 pm, in the Main Library’s North Entry Courtyard, 601 Santa Monica Blvd.
This year’s Santa Monica READS featured novel is “Longbourn” by Jo Baker, the story of the servants working in the household made famous in Jane Austen’s regency period classic “Pride and Prejudice.”
True to the book’s setting and time, the library’s kickoff celebration will feature live music, English country dancing with dancers in period costume, and guest caller Judee Pronovost.
Dancers will demonstrate a few of the typical dances performed during Austen’s time, then teach a few of the steps to audience members. Refreshments will also be served. Audience members will also have the opportunity to pick up copies of Jo Baker’s “Longbourn,” while supplies last.
This special event is part of the library’s annual community reading program Santa Monica READS.
Now in its thirteenth year, Santa Monica READS encourages everyone in Santa Monica to read and discuss the same novel.
In addition to the kickoff celebration, many other special events and book discussions are planned throughout the run of the five-week program. For more information on Santa Monica READS 2015, visit smpl.org/Loungbourn2015.
This program is free and open to all ages. For more information, call the Santa Monica Public Library at 310.458.8600 or visit smpl.org.
