HEIDELBERG, Germany - Through a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts, the European Regional Library Support Center is encouraging everyone in Heidelberg to read "The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald and to participate in a series of cultural events throughout November.
This community-wide reading event partners the European Regional Library Support Center, Patrick Henry Village Library and the German-American Institute Library in providing cultural programming and book discussions about Fitzgerald's novel.
The Big Read program kicks off with a jazz band performance at 4 p.m. Nov. 4 in the Patrick Henry Village Library.
During the month-long celebration, residents can attend free discussions, guest scholar lectures and other special events at all three libraries. Participants are invited to attend as many Gatsby events as possible, including programs held off post at the German-American Institute Library. These events will be held in English and are free of charge to all Army Europe Libraries customers. The closing event will include a Roaring '20s Trivia Contest and a finale party starting at 7 p.m. Dec. 4 in Legends Bar on Patrick Henry Village.
"Great literature illuminates the mind," said Meg Tulloch, Europe Region Librarian. "Long after you have read The Great Gatsby your mind keeps coming back to the characters. It is such an American story, you feel it is part of your cultural history."
Interested participants are encouraged to visit the European Regional Library Support Center or Patrick Henry Village Library to pick up a Gatsby reading kit, which includes a schedule of events plus a free copy of "The Great Gatsby," a reader's guide and a CD guide.
Schedule of Events
Big Read Kickoff Celebration
Tuesday, Nov. 4, 4 p.m. Patrick Henry Village Library
European Regional Library Support Center, PHV Library and the Deutsche-Amerikanisches Institut celebrate the beginning of the month-long Big Read program. Listen to jazz music, discuss some of your favorite books or pick up a complimentary copy of "The Great Gatsby."
Fashion of the 1920s
Tuesday, Nov. 4, 6 pm, European Regional Library Support Center
Costuming expert Jennifer Daszczyszak from Theatrix will discuss fashion in the Roaring '20s. She will be bringing clothing examples for all to see.
1920s Dance Presentation
Wednesday, Nov. 5, 6 p.m., PHV Library
Do you love to cut a rug' Ever wondered how exactly a fox trots' PHV Library will be hosting a dance exhibition that will show you classic dance crazes, such as the Charleston or Jitterbug.
The Great Gatsby Book Discussion,
Thursday, Nov. 6, 7 p.m., PHV Library
The Patrick Henry Village Library Book Club will be holding its monthly meeting to discuss "The Great Gatsby." The event is open to all.
F. Scott Fitzgerald and his Time
Saturday, Nov. 15, 6 p.m., Deutsch-Americanische Institut Library, Sofienstrasse 12, Heidelberg
Besides mint juleps and rum-running, what was going on in the 1920s' Why is Fitzgerald regarded as such a genius' Dr. Steven Bloom, professor of English at the University of Heidelberg, will be on hand at DAI to answer these and other questions. Learn more about the turbulent times that helped shape this amazing author.
1920s Jazz Music Talk
Tuesday, Nov. 18, 6 p.m., European Regional Library Support Center
The Roaring Twenties are known as the time that jazz roared during the so-called prohibition era, but do you know how much of a role jazz music plays in the music of today' Come learn about the birth of a revolutionary music movement that changed history - and the world.
Jazz Band Concert & Drop-in Social
Wednesday, Nov. 19, 6 p.m., PHV Library
The Heidelberg High School Jazz Band will get your toes tapping with great tunes.
"The Great Gatsby" Book Discussion
Thursday, Nov. 20, 7 p.m., Deutsch-Americanische Institut Library, Sofienstrasse 12, Heidelberg
DAI hosts another chance to discuss the American classic. Share your thoughts and opinions on this enduring novel.
"The Great Gatsby" Film Screening
Tuesday, Nov. 25, 6 p.m., European Regional Library Support Center
Robert Redford and Mia Farrow lit up the screen as the doomed Gatsby and his love Daisy. This third filmed version of the classic novel was adapted for the screen by Francis Ford Coppola, better known for directing "The Godfather." The European Regional Library Support Center will be screening the movie - and what film is complete without popcorn'
Great Gatsby Trivia and Grand Finale Party
Thursday, Dec. 4, 7 p.m., Legends Bar, PHV
Hit Legends for a final night of jazz and celebration. The night will start off with 1920s trivia. Show off what you know and compete for prizes. Then stick around for a jazz party. All participants younger than 18 must be accompanied by a parent.
Stay current on any of these planned activities by visiting the Army Europe Libraries Web site at www.library.eur.army.mil. And for more information about The Big Read program, contact Christina Kruger at DSN 314-370-6678.
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