Fairfield University and Fairfield Public Library form book club alliance ... with a twist | Press Releases

Book clubs are a terrifically popular way in which to "meet" an author on the page within a group of like-minded individuals who are willing to discuss interpretations, background and sometimes, personal experiences. Fairfield University and the Fairfield Public Library have joined forces to add a live dimension to the newest book club in town, "Cliff's Notes & Company," named after the host, well-known book maven and Fairfield alumnus, Cliff Smith '56.

The first book on the schedule is Jeffrey Toobin's bestseller, The Nine: Inside the Secret World of the Supreme Court, which will be released in paperback Sept. 9. "Cliff's Notes" meets at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 11, and offers the club members an opportunity to discuss the book in a leisurely atmosphere at the University's Alumni House. Toobin will appear at Fairfield University's Open VISIONS Forum (OVF) at 8 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 24 at the Quick Center for the Arts, where he will lecture, answer questions from the audience and sign books following the lecture. Book club participants are encouraged to attend and present questions directly to the author. OVF will make a special arrangement with club members to ensure admission to the event, which is likely to draw a capacity crowd.

Associate Vice President and Dean of University College Edna Wilson expressed enthusiastic support recently, "The University is delighted to work with the Fairfield Public Library on this uniquely dynamic book club. Our individual resources and goals perfectly complement this endeavor and together we are able to expand our partnership in a multi-dimensional union that enriches the community."

The library will make a large number of copies of The Nine available for those who want to borrow the book to participate in the club. Sign-up for "Cliff's Notes" is through the library website, www.fairfieldpubliclibrary.org. The schedule will be posted on the library's website as dates are secured.

Tickets for Open VISIONS Forum are $45 and are available at www.fairfield.edu/openvisions or by calling the Quick Center Box Office at (203) 254-4010. The toll free number is 877-ARTS-396.