The Merrimack Chamber of Commerce announced that the Merrimack Public Library, one of 15 collective libraries in southern New Hampshire, has partnered with the Fireseed Alliance and has won a National Endowment for the Arts Big Read Grant.

The NEA Big Read is a program designed to broaden our understanding of our world, our communities and ourselves through the joy of sharing a good book.

Starting mid-September through October, 40 cultural events throughout the region will celebrate the chosen book: John Steinbeck’s "The Grapes of Wrath." Each event will relate in some way to this Pulitzer Prize-winning novel. The themes in this book are remarkably current and relate well to the agricultural history of New Hampshire.

The Merrimack Public Library trustees have come forward to underwrite the cost of the 224-seat theater for an upcoming presentation; however, the library is still in need of business partners for the series of events that will take place in Merrimack. Any business that would like to contribute will receive:

? Business acknowledgment at every event that occurs in Merrimack.

? Your business name on promotional event bookmarks to be handed out at all Merrimack events, including: movie screening, University of New Hampshire speakers, paint nights, a musical presentation and book discussions.

? Company logo/listing on the library’s website, social media campaign and other collaterals that support the event.

Contributions of all sizes will be appreciated and acknowledged; however, for businesses that are able to donate $1,000 or more, the Fireseed Alliance will add your logo to our major donor banner, which will be displayed at major events such as the kickoff event at Labelle Winery. Online promotion will include a digital version banner displayed on the Fireseed Alliance website and the event’s Facebook page.

If your business isn’t in the position to financially support the event, please consider donating a prize or gift certificate to the event.

For more information about the partnerships and the event, contact Yvette Couser, library director, at ycouser@merrimack
library.org or 424-5021, ext. 108.

The Big Read kickoff event is Sunday, Sept. 18, at LaBelle Winery.

The movie screening is Wednesday, Oct. 5, at the Merrimack Cinemagic.

For a complete list of all Big Read events, visit fireseedalliance.org.

– Submitted by
Merrimack Chamber of Commerce