A perennial favourite has returned to all University of Alberta Library locations! From Monday, November 18, 2024 until Sunday, December 1, 2024, our Don’t Judge a Book by its Cover is here for you to explore new reads. This year’s theme explores almost 400 printed works and 30 ebooks from Latin American and Caribbean authors. Previous works explored have from come authors representing Black, LGBTQ, Indigenous, East Asian, Middle Eastern and South Asian, and African communities.
What is Don’t Judge a Book By Its Cover?
Now in its 7th season, Don’t Judge a Book By Its Cover aims to shed light on underrepresented groups. As a twist on regular book displays, selected books from this year’s theme are wrapped in brown paper and teaser keywords are written on the front. This wrapping symbolizes the marginalization of the group, and puts the focus on the content of the story.
Another version of Don’t Judge a Book is called Blind Date with a Book, and can be found not only in libraries, but also in bookstores. Some iterations write keywords on the paper that describe the book’s theme, while others will write the first sentence from the wrapped work.
Excitement and Appreciation
Anticipation for the event is already high. Recently, a staff member wrapping books at Cameron Library was approached by a student excitedly looking forward to exploring this year’s theme. Multiple patrons have also expressed their appreciation for being introduced to new authors and genres that they may not have otherwise chosen.
Our many thanks to Rutherford Library Information Services Specialist, Amy Southgate, for her tireless work on this initiative. We appreciate your dedication and commitment to highlighting stories from these communities.
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