On August 29, South Dakota Humanities Council Scholar Greg Garon visited the Faith Public/School Library to start a group book discussion. Ten individuals came to listen and visit with the scholar. Greg who has lived in Timber Lake for the past 30 yrs. is formally a high school teacher and has taught in Timber Lake, Wisconsin and Chicago. He and his wife now enjoy the slow town life of western South Dakota. When Greg is not traveling for the South Dakota Humanities Council, he enjoys going on hunting trips.
The South Dakota Humanities Council is sponsoring this event by paying for a scholar to come to libraries who receive grants specifically for the humanities. Also, the books that we are using are courtesy of the Council. Thanks to the Council, the Faith Public Library has received a grant to assist with the summer reading program for the past two years. Many mini grants can be applied for through the Council for libraries and communities.
Greg shared with us what to look for while reading a book for discussion – some points to consider are:
· Factual points that the author is revealing
· Is what the author sharing true or his/her perspective
· Is the book enjoyable and what are you getting out of the book (context)
· Having an opinion and being able to share is valuable
· Not all books can lead to a great discussion
Greg encouraged us to read the book and share with others. Write notes and thoughts while enjoying the book. Bring others to the discussion even if they have not read the book to listen and bring perspective.
Our final book discussion for this book – “The Journey of Crazy Horse” by Joseph M. Marshall III will be Oct. 3 @ 6 PM. Some copies are still available at the Faith Library.
