St. Charles library to celebrate One Book, One Community in April

Throughout the month of April, the St. Charles Public Library will celebrate One Book, One Community, a shared, citywide reading and cultural experience. It's an opportunity to connect with the entire community through a fascinating book, engaging discussion and a variety of events.

The selection, "The Boys in the Boat," is the story of the University of Washington's eight-oar team and their epic quest for gold at the 1936 Berlin Olympics. The team transformed the sport and grabbed the attention of millions of Americans in the depths of the Depression.

The emotional heart of the story lies with one rower, Joe Rantz, a teenager without family or prospects, who rows not for glory, but to regain his shattered self-respect.

"One Book, One Community" includes book discussions, skilled speakers, historical portrayals and a wide variety of relevant programming throughout the month.

On Sunday, April 3, join the launch of the "One Book, One Community" programming at 2 p.m. at the library, 1 S. Sixth Ave. Two crew racing boats, courtesy of RowAmerica St. Charles, will be on display.

Men, women and students, ages 12 or older, can test their prowess on a Concept 2 Indoor Rower, the same ones used by Olympic athletes in training, and race for prizes. Then, travel back to the 1930s and browse a fascinating exhibit of artifacts and images ranging from local interests to the Berlin Olympics. In addition, they will have raffles, giveaways, book sales and refreshments.

Programming events include "The Boys in the Boys: A Historical Perspective" at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 7; Second Tuesday Book Discussion on Tuesday, April 12, at 10 a.m. or 7 p.m.; "Telling It Like It Isn't: A Brief History of Propaganda in Film" at 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 19; Babe Didrickson Zaharias at noon Thursday, April 21; and a Teen Book Discussion at 2 p.m. Sunday, April 24.

At 7 p.m. Monday, April 25, Judy Rantz Willman will share "The Story Behind the Boys in the Boat" during a free presentation at the Arcada Theatre, 105 E. Main St. in St. Charles. While the book's main character, Joe Rantz, passed away in 2007, Willman keeps her father's triumphant story alive with stories about her dad and family, and reflect on why the best-selling book has had such a power effect on readers all over the nation.

The library will end the monthlong celebration from 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, April 30, at the closing celebration at the Pottawatomie Park pavilion, 8 North Ave. Local junior rowers from the St. Charles Rowing Club and the St. Charles Canoe Club will demonstrate their skills. Refreshments and door prizes will be available for all to enjoy.

If you purchase "The Boys in the Boat" at Town House Books during the month of March, show your library card and receive a 10-percent discount, as well as an entry into a weekly prize drawing. Several community organizations are partnering with the library during the month including Saint Charles Rowing Club, RowAmerica, St. Charles Canoe Club, St. Charles History Museum, St. Charles Park District, Town House Books and the Arcada Theatre.

For information about the book or programming available, visit www.stcharleslibrary.org or call 630-584-0076.