PITT PROFESSOR PROMOTES AFRICAN-AMERICAN READ-IN CHAIN

PITTSBURGH, Jan. 14 -- As part of a national effort to promote racial harmony and a greater appreciation of African-American literature, University of Pittsburgh education Professor Ogle Duff once again will host the "African-American Read-In Chain" on Sunday, Feb. 6, at 4 p.m. in the library of the First Baptist Church on Bellefield and Bayard Streets, Oakland.

This is the eleventh year for the Read-In, which is free and open to the public.

"This is an opportunity for the community at large to participate in a positive reading experience at the church or with their own group such as the girl scouts, a literary group, or other organization," said Duff. "The goal is to become familiar with the works of African-American writers by devoting an hour to reading literature of their own choosing or by calling for suggestions."

Schools, community and professional organizations, businesses, churches, libraries, bookstores, and interested citizens are urged to make literacy a significant part of Black History Month by hosting and coordinating Read-Ins in their communities. People across the nation can participate on Feb. 6. Schools may join in the program by holding a Read-In on Monday, Feb. 7.

The Read-In is sponsored by the Black Caucus of the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE). For more information about the Read-In, holding your own reading, recommendations on reading selections, or if you are interested in reading at the church, contact Duff at 412-648-7194.

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