Cleveland Public Library (CPL) is “The People’s University,” the center of learning for a diverse and inclusive community. Ohio Center for the Book at Cleveland Public Library (OCFB) is dedicated to promoting and celebrating books, reading, and literacy. The YWCA Greater Cleveland (YWCA) is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all. These exceptional institutions have come together to present: It’s Time to Talk: Forum on Race book club discussion sets. The titles selected are award-winning books that address race, gender, immigration, poverty, and criminal justice issues . The book clubs are one of many options offered by the YWCA’s “It’s Time to Talk” programs, including the annual It’s Time to Talk: Forums on Race (ITT) and offers a unique experience for individuals and organizations willing to talk about the complex issues of race and cultural diversity.
WHY BOOK CLUBS? Start a Discussion by Reading Together! This model of civic engagement is easy to facilitate; anyone with a CPL library card may borrow ITT Book Sets. These book group discussions are a way to engage in thoughtful and intelligent dialogue, where people–co-workers, community members of different racial and ethnic backgrounds– can sit down together to discuss selected books that address social justice issues. The intent is to get people listening to one another, which will lead to greater understanding.
INTERESTED IN BORROWING BOOKS? Click Here. You will learn more details about these book sets and have access to an online registration form to complete. You may also contact CPL’s Literature Department at literature@cpl.org or 216.623.2881. CPL’s Main Library is located at 325 Superior Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44114; operating hours are: Monday-Saturday, 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
YWCA Greater Cleveland is located at 4019 Prospect Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44103. For more information about “It’s Time to Talk” programs and services, contact the YWCA.