Omaha Public Library announces 2012 Omaha Reads title

Each year, Omaha Public Library (OPL) encourages the community to join together in reading one book as part of the Omaha Reads campaign. Omaha Reads promotes literacy and provides the City with a common theme to discuss. The selection is celebrated with book talks, author visits and related programs and events. This September, the gentility of the Gilded Age will cast a glow on our town as Omaha reads Edith Wharton’s “The Age of Innocence.” 

“’The Age of Innocence’ is a great selection for 2012 Omaha Reads,” said OPL Executive Director Gary Wasdin. “Not only does it adequately pay tribute to the author’s 150th birthday, but the time period has grown in popularity with the success of Downton Abbey.”

Omaha Reads will kick off with a lawn party on Sunday, Sept. 2, 3:30 p.m. at Joslyn Castle, 3902 Davenport St. Participants will have the opportunity to tour the property, play croquet and badminton, and enjoy scrumptious finger sandwiches and cocktails.

OPL will host visits from authors who have written books inspired by Edith Wharton. Jennie Fields, author of “The Age of Desire,” will speak on Thursday, Sept. 13, 6 p.m. at W. Dale Clark Main Library, 215 S. 15th St. “The Age of Desire” is the story of writer Edith Wharton's illicit affair and sexual awakening at the age of 45 with journalist Morton Fullerton. Francesca Segal, author of “The Innocents” will appear on Thursday, Sept. 20, 6 p.m. at Joslyn Castle. “The Innocents” is a recasting of Wharton’s “The Age of Innocence” featuring 28-year-old Adam Newman—the prize catch of Temple Fortune, a small, tight-knit Jewish suburb of London. Books will be available to purchase at both events. 

For the Omaha Reads finale, join us for a Millionaires & Mansions North Gold Coast tour on Sunday, Sept. 30, 3:30 p.m. departing from The Durham Museum, 801 South 10th St. Explore neighborhoods north of Dodge St. in midtown Omaha, learn about the Mercer Mansion, Joslyn Castle, the Louis Nash residence and more. Space is limited and registration is required. 

Omaha Reads programs at your local OPL branch may include book discussions, a Gilded Age fashion show, making your own wooden wax seal, learning embroidery or a movie night. All events are free and open to the public. A complete schedule of events and registration information is available at omahalibrary.org. Reserve your copy of “The Age of Innocence” today.  

Visit omahalibrary.org for information about additional programs offered at Omaha Public Library’s 12 metro locations.