Dust off your cloche hats, polish your wingtips and get ready to party like it’s 1922! The Germantown Community Library (GCL) is taking a step back into the Roaring Twenties for this year’s Big Read, bringing F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic novel “The Great Gatsby” to life from September through November.
Whether you’re re-reading the masterpiece or stepping into West Egg for the very first time, the library is rolling out the red carpet with three full months of book discussions, jazzy programming and community events so grand even Jay Gatsby himself would approve.
A Community-Wide Collaboration
Supported by a $5,000 National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) Big Read grant, the initiative brings together the Germantown Regional History and Genealogy Center, the Germantown Municipal School District and Germantown Community Theatre. Together, the local partners will host specialized programs, interactive workshops and collaborative events throughout the celebration.
“This initiative truly belongs to the entire community,” GCL Director Maegan Wright said. “It isn’t limited to people who have already read ‘The Great Gatsby’ or who feel especially knowledgeable about literature. We’ve intentionally created opportunities for children, teens, adults, seniors, families, artists, history enthusiasts, theater lovers and people who are simply curious to participate.”
Here are some highlights of the celebration. All events take place at the library, 1925 Exeter Road.
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The Big Read Kickoff Event (Saturday, September 12, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.): This free, all-ages celebration includes interactive activities, themed displays and free special editions of “The Great Gatsby,” including board books for kids and graphic novels for teens. Come dressed in your 1920s best or just come as you are!
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Lecture & Discussion with Dr. Donal Harris (Wednesday, September 16, 6 to 7 p.m.): Join Dr. Harris from the University of Memphis as he explores the deeper cultural contexts, literary themes and historical echoes of the Jazz Age. Registration is required: Call 757-7323, visit the information desk or register online here.
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Student Art Submissions (October 1 through 31): GCL is collecting original student artwork for a November showcase celebrating the novel. Student artists in third through 12th grade are invited to submit creative works inspired by the era or their favorite literary themes. For submission guidelines, click here.
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Germantown in the 1920s (Saturday, October 10, 2 to 3 p.m.): Turn back the clock, gather for an engaging book discussion and hear from local historians as they bring to life what Germantown was like during the 1920s, featuring a special display of local artifacts and genealogical records. Register online here.
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Gatsby After Dark: Reader’s Theater & Book Discussion (Wednesday, October 21, 4 p.m.): Step into character! Attendees will have the unique opportunity to act out iconic scenes from the book during this interactive evening discussion.
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Book Discussion & Jazz Session (Wednesday, November 18, 3 to 4 p.m.): Explore a curated Jazz Age playlist and trace how the music of the era mirrors the novel's sweeping themes of aspiration, reinvention and identity.
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The Great Gatsby: Outdoor Movie Showing (Saturday, November 21, 4 to 6 p.m.): Step into the glitz and glamour under the stars! Enjoy an outdoor screening of the classic 1974 film adaptation. 1920s attire is highly encouraged! Afterward, stick around for a post-screening discussion comparing the film's cinematic vision to Fitzgerald's timeless novel. Register online here.
Rooted in Connection
“I hope residents come away feeling more connected to not only the story, but to one another and to the community we share,” Wright said. “One of the things I value most about public libraries is their ability to bring together people who may have very different ages, backgrounds and experiences and give them a common place to have a conversation.”
There are many more book discussions and activities throughout the coming months. To view the complete lineup, check the City Calendar, visit the GCL website or check out the library’s Facebook page.
