Jan 3, 2009
Why Reading Local?
By: Gabe Barber
Reading Local has been started as an experiment to see if the book scene in Portland, Oregon is substantial enough to warrant full time blog coverage. What exactly does that term “book scene” mean? The short and vague answer is, anything and everything to do with books as it relates to Portland. The longer and bit more in depth answer is: local writers; publications authored by local writers; writing classes; writing instructors; writers associations; local school programs with a writing focus; local readers; books being read by local readers; the personal libraries of local readers; local public libraries; book clubs; meet up groups; local publishers; local literary agents; local bookstores; booksellers working at local bookstores; books on sale at antique stores; books on sale at yard/estate sales; books being sold at library “book sales”; local book related events; and whatever else involving “Portland” and “books” that can be discovered and shared with you the reader.
That’s all fine and dandy (even sounds a little fun), but how did I your friendly guide in this endeavor even come to be interested in such a thing? I have always had a fascination with reading. Being somewhat of an independent soul (sounds better than being a “loner”) books were always a way for me to entertain myself. Coupled with this was a deep seated passion, fostered by my father, for being engaged in your local community. After much introspection, and having recently transitioned to being a stay at home father, I realized maybe with a blog such as this I could marry those two passions together.
So that in a nutshell brings us to where we are now. But I have a couple questions for you. What is your relation to the Portland book scene? Are you a reader, writer, publisher, agent, bookstore owner, bookseller? Lastly, how did you stumble upon Reading Local? Are you glad you did? I Look forward to your answers in the comments below.
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Hey, I just came across your site after seeing a link from PDX Writer Daily. I think that Portland has a big enough book scene to justify a blog dedicated solely to books. I look forward to reading.
Colin Matthew (The Book Pirate)'s Recent post…The City of Dreaming Books by Walter Moers
Colin,
Sorry this was a little late in coming. I just added you to the blogroll, your site is well updated and enjoyable. Good luck and continued success!
Hey, this turned up in my Google alerts. Thanks for the shout out!
April
[...] little over a year ago Reading Local Portland was born with this post. I had recently become a stay-at-home father and found myself with some time on my hands while [...]