The Gail Borden Public Library, the City of Elgin, Elgin Community College, U-46, local veterans and more than 40 partners are proud to bring you The Big Read, a community-wide project. The project goals are literacy, honoring Vietnam veterans – to give them the recognition they may not have had – and strengthening our community through partnerships and the arts. The Big Read has involved many people. Without the committee members, library staff and many volunteers, this project could never have been realized. Their energy and dedication to The Big Read is most admirable.
We are still attempting to understand the difficult time in our country during the Vietnam War. Lessons learned about democracy and freedom need to be passed down to children and grandchildren. And for many, the healing continues. We can strive to continue learning, understanding and healing when together, as one community, we read and discuss one book.
Carole A. Medal
Executive Director, Gail Borden Public Library District