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Amid pandemic: ‘One Book’ aims for unity

In a time when people are practicing social distancing, one program is attempting to bring them together in a different way.

One Book One Minnesota is a new statewide book club that invites Minnesotans of all ages to read a common title and come together virtually.

Martin County Library director Jenny Trushenski said it all came together pretty quickly, considering such projects require cooperation from different entities.

The program is put on through The Friends of the St. Paul Library and the Minnesota Center for the Book, in partnership with State Library Services.

During April and May, through their local libraries, Minnesotans will be invited to read the featured book: “Because of Winn Dixie,” written by Minnesota author Kate DiCamillo.

“The book is available for free on Ebooks Minnesota. They’ll provide as many copies as people need,” Trushenski said.

She said the book is appropriate for children too, with wide-ranging appeal for people of all ages. Participants will then have the option to take part in a statewide virtual discussion with the author in late May.

To access the digital book, you need an internet connection, but the book can be downloaded on a computer, tablet, smartphone or E-reader.

“The idea behind it was to bring people together to have a common book title people across the state can read during this difficult time,” Trushenski said.

Trushenski said there has been some conversation about having another title available later. The program has reached out to anther Minnesota-based author to see if they are available and willing to participate.

While this program is intended for the entire state, Trushenski said “community reads” have grown in popularity.

“With social distancing and people staying at home, we’re really pushing the digital aspect of this. E-books give us an opportunity to reach people,” Trushenski said.

As of today, the Martin County Library system, like other libraries in the state, is still closed under the governor’s order. Trushenski said the local library is talking about trying to offer no-contact pickup again soon.

In the meantime, Trushenski said people are still able to “check out” E-books.

“Our E-book use has gone up more than 20 percent since the middle of March when we had to close the doors,” she noted.

She said they have two services: Hoopla and OverDrive, which has the libby app. People are able to check out E-books, audio books and music. They’re also issuing library cards online on their website.

“Something we hear is that people are so busy and they don’t have the time,” Trushenski said. “Now people are at home and they’re finding that they do have time. They’re spending more time baking, crafting, gardening and reading. A lot of people have books they’ve meant to read and now they’re finding they have the time to cross that off their list. And people who have always read are reading a lot more now.

“Books have the ability to captivate you and give you a break from everyday reality. Reading can really transport you and help you relax.”

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