Week 6 Prompt Response: Gentle Reads Program

In our overstimulated day and age, there is a lot to be said for the slower and more contemplative experience of reading a book--especially a book that is upbeat, comforting, and character-driven instead of flashy, violent, or fast-paced. While the genre of gentle reads is somewhat pigeonholed by stereotypically being for older readers, I think there’s many younger and middle aged readers who would also appreciate the reprieve these books offer from the speed and complexity of modern life.


To promote gentle reads to a wider audience, I would create a program at my library on “Slowing Down & Releasing Stress” or something similar. This program could present various stress-relief techniques (such as meditation, coloring pages, taking a once-a-week break from technology, etc), invite a local scholar or psychologist to discuss effects of stress versus relaxation on the brain, and then conclude by offering attendees stress-relieving resources available at the library--a display of gentle reads, complete with bookmarks providing further suggestions; a display of feel-good or inspirational movies; and a flier listing all relevant library programs, like musical events, crafting groups, meditation hours, and more! To better reach its intended audience, I would hold this program in the evening so that busy workers could more likely attend, and be sure to acquaint attendees of e-book and audiobook versions of all the media discussed, so that people with commutes or minimal free time could more easily access the recommended resources.