Margaret Harrington sees books as a way to bring the community together. In her vision, different forms of writing and literature are an opportunity to share ideas and join perspectives.
Through her business, Bear’s Books, Harrington promotes discussion between the community and esteemed writers by hosting book talks and signings.
Earlier this year, author Earl Swift visited the Douglass Theatre, a venue with a history of providing entertainment for African Americans during a time of segregation. In this notable space, he presented his book, “Hell Put To Shame” — a nonfiction novel about the peonage system of slavery from a rural city within an hour away from Macon.
After an intensive amount of research and the hack to write of the terrors of the mass murders against black farmhands, Swift discussed the forgotten events of racial injustice to members of the community. He would be one of the many authors to present a reading and open questionnaire organized by Harrington.
“When you have people talking about books or when people come into the bookstore and have little conversations. I think it gives people a way to find something in common or to learn something new,” Harrington said.
Before opening Bear’s Books, Harrington initially published essays on her website where she elaborated on her passion for books. With an interest in building community, she began hosting monthly book discussions at the Web, a work club on Washington Avenue.
She explained the book discussions set a foundation for an open and insightful conversation.
“You know you don’t have to start with the weather and all sorts of things and finally much later get to a topic that has more to it. It’s more engrossing automatically,” Harrington said.
In the past year, US book reading statistics show only about 64% of adults say they’ve read a book. The decline in reading acknowledges the issue of a lack of enjoyment or interest among adults.
Washington Memorial Library makes efforts to motivate adult readers through its non-traditional book club held at local businesses. Through their group called the Rough Drafts Book Club, members introduce their book of choice based on a collective vote on a story topic.
Kate Aultman, head of the Washington Memorial Library, said in an email this approach enhances adults’ drive to read.
“This opens our pool of readers to think creatively about what motivates them to read while allowing for the self selection of books,” Aultman said.
Much like Harrington’s initiative, the library provides resources to support reading within adults despite the demands and responsibilities brought on by life.
With a fixed determination, Harrington believes adults can reignite a love for reading they once had as children.
“Children become excited about reading when they find something they love. And so I try to encourage parents when I was teaching that as long as they’re reading, they are improving, it doesn’t have to be the most difficult book,” Harrington said.
Given day-to-day obligations, the room for personal pastimes can be slim and so is enthusiasm for reading. With guidance and support from the community, you can grow to invest in a stronger work-life balance that includes reading as a tool for learning and relief.
