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UNESCO Designates Iowa City as World's Third City of Literature
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has designated Iowa City the world's third City of Literature, making the community part of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network. "This is at once a celebration of the literary riches and resources of Iowa City and a spur to action," said University of Iowa International Writing Program Director Christopher Merrill, who led the UI Writing University committee that submitted the city's proposal. "We look forward to working with our new partners in the Creative Cities network -- to forging dynamic relationships with writers, artists and others committed to the life of discovery. This is a great day for Iowa City."
All Iowa Reads Chooses "The Rope Walk" by Carrie Brown for 2009
The All Iowa Reads 2009 selection was announced Friday, Oct. 17, 2008 at the Iowa Library Association Conference in Dubuque. Additional information will be added to this site before January 1, 2009. This will include discussion questions, suggestions for further reading, and publicity materials that can be downloaded and used to publicize local discussions.
Books You May Have Missed: "The Uncommon Reader"
This is the first of what will be an irregularly scheduled series about books that you may have missed and may want to consider reading. The following book recommendation is by Marvin Bergman, editor of The Annals of Iowa and a member of the Iowa Center for the Book Advisory Committee and the All Iowa Reads Committee.
State Historical Library Announces 2008-09 Book Group Schedule
The State Historical Library’s Book Discovery Discussions kicks off its 2008-2009 schedule Oct. 15, 2008, with "In for the Long Haul: The Life of John Ruan" by William Friedricks. The author will talk about the book and his process researching and documenting this prominent Iowa businessman and philanthropist. “Book Discovery Discussions” explores literature that defines, reflects or captures the history of Iowa. Meetings are free and open to the public at the State Historical Building, 3rd Floor, 600 E. Locust Street in Des Moines. Participants are encouraged to bring a brown bag lunch or take-out is available at several area restaurants, including Baratta’s on 3W of the Historical Building.