Cooper Library to promote Alabama author at Brown Bag Lunch

The Lewis Cooper Jr. Memorial Library has invited Brannon Sirmon to speak at the library's Brown Bag Lunch event Tuesday. The Brown Bag Lunch is a free event held approximately once a month to promote reading and local authors.

"It's a program the library offers to promote reading in adults," said library director Susan Delmas. "It's planned at lunch so people can bring their sandwich and come during their lunch hour."

Speakers present from 12-1 p.m. and refreshments are provided for listeners.

Sirmon is an Alabama native who attended the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa. While visiting family during Christmas of 2009, Sirmon came across his great-grandfather's diary he kept during World War I. Sirmon decided to publish the diary and tell his great grandfather's story.

"I will be at Cooper Library selling and signing copies of my great-grandfather's authentic World War I diary, 'That's War,'" Sirmon said. "I will have a display of his medals and will briefly describe the book and the medals. My great-grandfather, William Arthur Sirmon, was a lieutenant in World War I and eventually became one of the highest-decorated officers in the war."

Reference librarian Marsha Bryant said 15 people normally attend the lunch series, but she is expecting a larger turnout for Sirmon's presentation.

"The trend I have found is that programs with a historical basis tend to be more popular," Bryant said. "The Opelika and Auburn area has a long history, and many of its citizens love to learn more about it."

Bryant and Delmas try to find the speaker to suit their community best.

"I generally choose speakers based on if I see a community need," Bryant said. "(Delmas)is often contacted by people wishing to speak at the library."I chose Brannon Sirman because I felt his material would be popular with our patrons. I expect this to be really popular as it is a history-based program. I hope to have at least double the norm."