The Great Gatsby was chosen as Newport's book focus because of its local connection and popularity.  The Preservation Society's Rosecliff was one of the sites used as a setting for the 1974 version of the film based on the book; the novel is already a favorite among Newport residents, with steady circulation among library patrons; and because of its time period, it can be interpreted with numerous activities that will attract a broad audience.

            The NEA grant of $7,500 will be used to promote and carry out community-based programs.  In addition, NEA will provide free-of-charge educational materials, including Reader's Guides and Teacher's Guides, audio cassettes, posters and banners.

             The Newport program will begin in January, with a showing of the 1974 movie The Great Gatsby at Rosecliff, where it was filmed.  Over the next three months, planned activities will include at least nine book discussions led by Newport Public Library staff; a lecture by Newport historian Eileen Warburton on the book and its time period; lectures and workshops on 1920s fashions; a theatrical reading of the book by the Second Story Theater; a jazz concert and a dance contest for teens.

            A calendar of events will be available on the Preservation Society's website, www.NewportMansions.org.

            The Big Read is an initiative of the National Endowment for the Arts in partnership with the Institute of Museum and Library Services designed to revitalize the role of literature in American culture and bring the transformative power of literature into the lives of its citizens.  The Big Read brings together partners across the country to encourage citizens to read for pleasure and enlightenment.  To learn more, visit www.NEABigRead.org.