By Monique Roth
L’Observateur

LAPLACE — Known as National Literacy Month, Library Card Sign-Up Month and Fine Free Month, the month of September is jammed packed with events and incentives at all four branches of St. John the Baptist Parish Library. 

In observance of National Literacy Month, the Central Library branch, located at 2920 U.S. 51 in LaPlace, will host an Author Fest at 5 p.m. Sept. 16.

Four local authors — Diana Rowland, Ingrid Green Adams, Gregory Alexander and Darlene Bolesny — will present their written work, sell and sign their books. The authors will have an allotted time to speak and engage the audience as well.

Alexander, who was born in New Orleans and lives in River Ridge, is the author of “The Holy Mark,” which was recently named the Read of the Month by Southern Literary Review.

His book is the story of one reluctant priest caught between the cynicism of his own Southern upbringing and the political machinations of the Roman Catholic Church.

“I’m very much looking forward to Author Fest and to meeting and speaking to readers in St. John,” Alexander said. “L’OBSERVATEUR was one of the first papers in Louisiana to review my book, and I want to thank the people of St. John for their support.”

Alexander said he hopes residents who attend Author Fest learn about some great books available by regional writers, find titles that interest them and recommend them to friends and family. 

“I hope they are encouraged to support St. John’s wonderful library system,” Alexander added. 

Author Fest is a program geared towards teenagers and adults. For more information, call 985-652-6857.

Library Director Roberta August said library employees are hoping to sign up as many people as possible for library cards in September.

As long as someone can write their first and last name, they are eligible to receive a library card. 

A person’s first library card is free, and the first replacement card, if needed, is 50 cents. Each additional replacement card is $1. Non-resident cards are available for $5.

August said the Library Board of Control has graciously approved a fine-free period for September. 

Observed at all four branch libraries in LaPlace, Reserve, Garyville and Edgard, August said this courtesy gives patrons the opportunity to return items that are overdue without the penalty of a fine. 

To take advantage of the service, overdue items must be returned by the end of the month.

August said a few exceptions exist. State Library circulating laptop computers are not included in the forgiveness of fines, and any existing fines on a patron’s record incurred prior to September will not be waived.

For more information on any library activities or to view a calendar, visit stjohn.lib.la.us.