The September Project , King County Libraries, and Conversation Cafés

by Katharine Wismer

On Saturday, September 11, 2004, people around the world will come together at public places like local libraries to share and discuss ideas about democracy, citizenship, and patriotism through public talks, roundtables, and performances. Libraries are ideal hosts for such community events. They are free. They are open to the public. And there are over 16,000 public libraries in the U.S.

The September Project is currently working with all kinds of citizens, groups, and organizations. King County Library System in Washington State approached Conversation Cafés to create on-going conversations in their libraries around the Puget Sound area near Seattle, WA. Conversation Cafés will have a key role in moderating/facilitating, and training people in how to take the skills out into their own communities.

The kick off Conversation Café happens Saturday, September 11th at the four regional King County Libraries including Bellevue, Federal Way, Kent & Bothell.

Marsha Iverson, public relations specialist at King County Libraries, says, “Conversation Café has the process for civil conversations, King County Libraries has the place, and The September Project has the content for the conversations.”

If you would like to lend your skills, interests, and energy to various elements of the project, e-mail us at: [email protected]