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Readers are Leaders–Take the Challenge with Oliver James
Wed, February 14, 2024–Thu, April 18, 2024
– each day
Kalamazoo Public Library is hosting a community event with reading role model Oliver James, known for chronicling his self-taught journey on TikTok of learning how to read as an adult. Since 2022, he has amassed over 301,000 followers and continues to grow every day.
James gained recognition for his efforts and was awarded the Barbara Bush National Honors Literacy Award by the American Library Association in 2023. Additionally, he successfully accomplished his personal goal of reading and completing 100 books.
James’s visit to Kalamazoo aims to draw attention to the widespread issue of illiteracy in the US. The library has partnered with James to educate the public about the relevance of illiteracy in our community and the various disadvantages it brings to social dynamics, mental health, and generational progress. Through our collaboration, the community will be introduced to several organizations already diligently working to empower adult readers and provide them with the confidence, dignity, and support needed to make a meaningful impact on illiteracy and inequity issues in Kalamazoo and the wider United States.
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All Kalamazoo Public Library events are free and open to the public unless otherwise indicated in the event description. A library card is not required to attend. Events where space is limited may require prior registration or a free ticket to attend. Registration and ticket requirements are indicated in the event description. Patrons who require accommodations can submit their request to the event coordinator by calling 269-553-7800 or emailing [email protected].
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