University of Pittsburgh
January 19, 2005

16th National African American Read-In Chain to Be Held Feb. 6

The University of Pittsburgh's Ogle Duff will once again coordinate and sponsor readings at a local venue
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PITTSBURGH—Ogle Duff, emeritus professor in the University of Pittsburgh School of Education, will once again coordinate the 16th-annual African American Read-In Chain, at 3 p.m. Feb. 6, in the First Baptist Church library, 159 N. Bellefield Ave., Oakland.

Participants, including Pitt faculty and students and members of the church, will read aloud African American literature. The church choir will perform.

The national African American Read-In Chain takes place every February in recognition of Black History Month. People across the nation are encouraged to take an hour to read African American literature or make a community effort by holding group readings. In addition, professional organizations, teachers, businesses, churches, libraries, and bookstores are urged to host Read-Ins in order to cultivate a greater appreciation for African American literature.

Duff has organized the First Baptist Church's Read-In since its inception 16 years ago and tracks the number of local participants. After Feb. 6, please report individual or community readings and the number attending to Duff at 412-648-7194 or ogleduff@pitt.edu.

The Read-In is sponsored by the Black Caucus of the National Council of Teachers of English. For more information about participating in the Read-In, holding your own reading, receiving recommendations on reading selections, volunteering to read at the church, or registering, contact Patricia Lomando White at 412-624-9101 or laer@pitt.edu.

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