Book lovers will find two ways to quench their reading “thirst” at the Rock Island Public Library on Friday, August 25 and Saturday, August 26.
Quench Your Thirst for Reading at Rock Island Public Libraries!
Book lovers will find two ways to quench their reading “thirst” at the Rock Island Public Library on Friday, August 25 and Saturday, August 26.
On Friday, August 25, the Rock Island Library’s monthly book sale offers plenty of ways to stock up on books and other items and support the library at the same time. Hours of the monthly sale are 10 am to 1pm on Friday, August 25, at the Rock Island Downtown Library Community Room, 401 19th Street, Rock Island. Unless specially marked, items are priced as “fill a bag for a voluntary donation.” PALS (People Advocating for Library Services) volunteers with the Rock Island Public Library Foundation run the monthly book sale on the 4th Friday of each month through October.
While you’re at the sale, ask how to become a Library PAL volunteer, or purchase a reusable library book bag. All proceeds benefit special library projects, including the library’s new fine-free lending policy for Rock Island Public Library cardholders.
On Saturday, August 26, from 1pm to 2pm, you can satisfy a thirst for knowledge (but not beer, alas) by learning about local brewing culture from Michael McCarty, author of Quad Cities Beer, A History. McCarty will offer a short talk and book signing at the Rock Island Public Library Watts-Midtown Branch, 2715 30th Street about the book he co-wrote with Kristin DeMarr.
The book’s overview states, “The Quad Cities have a rich history of brewing that started with the influx of German citizens in the 1800s. Breweries were established on both sides of the Mississippi River. Some of these historic breweries managed to reopen after Prohibition, but national competition ultimately closed the last of these stalwarts in 1956. In 1989, Iowa created a special class "A" brewpub permit, and the first of many brewpubs in the area, Front Street Pub & Eatery, opened in 1992. Blue Cat Brew Pub, on the Illinois side of the river, opened shortly after. The brewing renaissance has helped to establish the Quad Cities as a craft beer destination. Join authors Michael McCarty and Kristin DeMarr as they celebrate the heady heritage of the region.”
For more news about events and services at the Rock Island Public Library, visit the library website, follow library social media, or call 309-732-READ.