The League of Women Voters is launching a community reading program in partnership with the Cortez Public Library, Dolores Public Library, Mancos Public Library, the Sunflower Theatre and the LOR Foundation.
The first book selected is “Who Is Government?: The Untold Story of Public Service,” a collection of essays profiling federal workers and highlighting their contributions to public service.
“Public service is often undervalued, and civil servants are too often viewed negatively when, in fact, the work they do is vital and sometimes lifesaving,” League of Women Voters’ Karen Sheek told The Journal. “Rather than being lazy and incompetent, ‘Who Is Government?’ shines a light on the dedication and excellence many of these men and women demonstrate every day on the job.”
The essays are written by various authors and edited by bestselling nonfiction author Michael Lewis, known for “The Blind Side,” “Moneyball” and other works.
“John F. Kennedy understood the value of public service. One of his most famous quotes came from his 1961 Inaugural Address when he said, ‘Ask not what your country can do for you – ask what you can do for your country,’” Sheek said. “He urged citizens to engage in service for the public good stating, ‘I think there's no higher calling in terms of a career than public service, which is a chance to make a difference in people's lives and improve the world.’”
Community members who wish to participate are encouraged to borrow the book from a local library. It is also available through the Libby app, which allows users with a library card to access ebooks and audiobooks.
The program will conclude at the Sunflower Theatre on Friday, May 1 at 7 p.m. Participants will be able to discuss the book, and a panel of current or retired federal employees will share why they entered public service, the challenges they have faced and their achievements throughout their careers. Local author Chuck Greaves will help facilitate the discussion.
“Today, many have a poor view of government at all levels and it certainly has its flaws. Perhaps reading ‘Who Is Government?’ will highlight the good that government can do, and reading the stories of those who have served the American people faithfully and well will renew our faith in the value of those performing public service,” Sheek said.
