Paying it Forward in Our Community

By Nicholle Gerharter, Reference Librarian

September 19, 2007

Natrona County Public Library’s "One Book, One Community” event is off to a rousing start with hundreds of community members reading and discussing the book “Pay it Forward" by Catherine Ryan Hyde. As we near the end of the month, the program will culminate in a visit by this bestselling author.

On September 27th at 7:00 p.m., Catherine Ryan Hyde will speak at Casper College’s Durham Hall, in the Aley Fine Arts Building. Ms. Hyde will discuss how she came up with the “pay it forward” idea, how it has spread around the globe, and answer questions from the audience. Her inspiring story, including how she continues to support activities that “pay it forward” with a website and foundation, is surely not one to be missed. Following her presentation, Ms. Hyde will sign copies of “Pay It Forward” and her other books, all of which will be for sale that evening.

Patrons also have the opportunity to see the movie “Pay It Forward” for free at the Rialto Theatre. This Friday, September 21st at 7:00 p.m., Helen Hunt, Kevin Spacey, Jon Bon Jovi, Angie Dickinson and Haley Joel Osment will recreate the story on the big screen. As with most movies, there are differences between the film and the book, so we encourage you to partake in both opportunities. Reading the book is certainly not a requirement for viewing the film (just don’t tell your high school English teacher we said so).

“One Book, One Community” encourages all community members to read the same book and to share in activities which knit the community together. The collective reading experience provides common ground for citizens to come together to share their experiences. The title “Pay It Forward” introduces themes of philanthropy, the goodness of human nature, and the inspiration of a small idea with big outcomes.

Whether or not you have the opportunity to read the book, see the film, or meet the author, everyone has the ability to “pay it forward” by donating time or money to causes that are near to your heart. Rake leaves for a neighbor. Give your old eyeglasses to the Lions Club. Volunteer your expertise at an elementary school. Be a senior companion. Send a hand-written letter to a long-lost friend. Small acts of kindness and goodness, whether monetary or not, can make all the difference to the recipient, in ways you cannot imagine. When you receive kindness from a stranger, take the time to pass that sentiment on to someone else.

Beginning at the September 5th Kickoff Event, 500 copies of the book “Pay It Forward” were given away at the library. Currently, those copies are traveling throughout the community, being read and repeatedly shared with friends, neighbors, co-workers and family. In addition, over 20 circulating copies have been added to the library collection for checkout. If a free copy of “Pay It Forward” has not crossed your path, and you are interested in reading the book, please call the library at 577-READ to put a hold on a circulating copy.

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