Wayne County Reads is giving the community a chance to connect as part of its annual project. Several events will be held in conjunction with this year’s book, one of which will take place at Wayne Community College.

Wayne County Reads’ 2024 book pick is Kindness and Wonder: Why Mister Rogers Matters Now More Than Ever by Gavin Edwards.

The book pays tribute to Fred Rogers, creator and host of the television show Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.

The Wayne County Reads events are free and open to the public. Having read the book is not necessary to attend each of the following programs:

Sept. 10 at 6 p.m. in the Goldsboro Library Auditorium: The Words of Mister Rogers: An Evening with Dr. Tony Cartledge
Dr. Tony Cartledge, who knew Mister Rogers personally, will encourage attendees to consider what Mister Rogers would say if he were here today.

Sept. 17 at 6 p.m. at Wayne Community College: Voices of Our Neighborhood: A Community Gathering
Participants can connect with people from all backgrounds, listen to their perspectives, and share experiences through meaningful conversations. The event will begin in Moffatt Auditorium in the Wayne Learning Center (the main building on campus with the flag poles in front). Refreshments will be provided.

Sept. 19 at 5:30 p.m. at Steele Memorial Library: Film Screening: A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood
A film about Mister Rogers will be shown.

Sept. 28 from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the Goldsboro Library: Neighborhood Noise & Nosh: An Outdoor Community Party
Celebrate the spirit of Mister Rogers at this community gathering with games, food, music, and more.

Kindness and Wonder is available through the Wayne County Public Library.

WCC encourages persons with disabilities to participate in its programs and activities. If you anticipate needing accommodations or have questions about access, contact the Accessibility Counselor at 919-739-6729.

About Wayne County Reads
Wayne County Reads is a one-book, one-community project started in Wayne County in 2004.

In addition to discussing each book’s literary merits, Wayne County Reads provides free public programs such as lectures, exhibits, performances, films, discussions, demonstrations, contests, and festivals that explore the themes and issues in the books.

Wayne County Reads’ partners include Seymour Johnson Air Force Base Library, University of Mount Olive Library, Wayne Community College, Wayne Country Day School, and Wayne County Public Library.