Sept. 12, 2023
Tulsa City-County Library invites everyone to experience their community in a new way through VERSES, an exciting fundraising affair benefiting TCCL’s Ruth G. Hardman Adult Literacy Service, scheduled Saturday, Sept. 30 at 6 p.m. at Central Library, Fifth Street and Denver Avenue.
The event aims to educate attendees on the importance of adult literacy initiatives in Tulsa County while offering a unique way to explore local artists, businesses and community offerings.
“VERSES is a hybrid of a market, an auction, an art show and performances. It’s also an opportunity for us to raise awareness around our literacy program and why we are needed in the community,” said VERSES creator Mandy Durham, who is TCCL’s literacy services manager.
For VERSES, Central Library will transform into an enchanting night market featuring local small-press and independently published authors, artists and a variety of local vendors. The ticketed event also will include live poetry readings and spoken-word performances, as well as food and beverage for purchase from area eateries. An online auction offering products, services and experiences from local artists and businesses will open on Saturday, Sept. 16.
The vendor market in particular will create an environment for exploration and unexpected interactions, much like the one-to-one model of the tutoring program offered through the Ruth G. Hardman Adult Literacy Service.
“We make matches between tutors and learners, and in a lot of situations those folks may not have crossed paths otherwise,” said Durham. “In fact, many tutors and learners go on to become friends, and these great relationships grow out of the program. I wanted to see that reflected in this event.”
For more information about the Ruth G. Hardman Adult Literacy Service, visit www.tulsalibrary.org/literacy.
To learn more about VERSES, view auction items or purchase tickets, visit www.tulsalibrary.org/VERSES or call 918-549-7323.
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