Auburn is taking part in the 23rd annual National African-American Read-In Feb. 6 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The read-in will take place in front of the Mell Street entrance of Ralph Brown Draughon Library.
"Libraries can be involved in special events dealing with diversity and multiculturalism," said Todd Shipman, foreign language and literature specialist for Auburn libraries. "We are working with the Office of Diversity and Multicultural Affairs and thought it appropriate for the library to be part of this event."
This is the first time Auburn has hosted the read-in.
"There will be a podium and speakers," Shipman said. "People will read anywhere from two to three minutes long. Students, professors and anyone who would like to read are welcome."
The special collections room in the basement of the library will serve as an alternate meeting location in the case of bad weather.
"If people want to bring their lunch and sit on the picnic table and eat, they are welcome to," Shipman said. "It's supposed to be nice weather."
Jaena Alabi, Auburn librarian whose English studies have an African-American focus, is selecting the books.
"There will be all kinds of literature by African-American authors," Shipman said. "We are going to put shelves with all our material in front of Caribou Coffee inside the library. People are welcome to browse the collection of works before and after the event."
Paullette Gilworth, assistant vice president for Access and Community Initiatives, said she is glad the read-in is coming to Auburn.
"This is something I have wanted to do since I've been here," Gilworth said. "My office is a unit of the Office of Diversity and Multicultural Affairs and one of our goals is to provide opportunities for students to learn and participate in multicultural experiences. Colleges, universities, libraries, even churches participate in read-in events similar to this one in support of Black History Month."
Auburn students, faculty and the community are encouraged to read from one of the selections or choose their own African-American work to read at the event.
"A favorite African-American author, rap, poetry, literature or anything from African-American culture is welcome as long as there is no offensive language," Gilworth said.
In order to sign up to read, contact Jennifer Cook at jsc0013@auburn.edu.
"Events like this raise awareness of African-American culture and contributions African-Americans have made to American society when it comes to written and spoken word," Gilworth said. "There is something to be learned from every group. We all have something to bring to United States culture. That is what I want people to take away from this."
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