Monterey County Free Libraries join One Book One Coast with George Takei's They Called Us Enemy

Monterey County Free Libraries are participating in the regional One Book One Coast reading program and selected They Called Us Enemy, a graphic memoir by George Takei, as this year's common read, library staff said.

"We're very excited about our One Book One Coast program," said B. Agno of Monterey County Free Libraries. The county will host partnered programs with the Japanese American Citizens League: May 9 at the Seaside Branch (a program about Japanese-American presence and history on the Monterey Peninsula) and May 30 at the Marina Branch (a screening and discussion of a locally produced film titled Enduring Democracy). A community book discussion is scheduled for 6 p.m. on Tuesday, May 12 at the Seaside Branch, Agno said.

Agno noted the book — a roughly 200-page graphic memoir about Japanese-American internment — is readily accessible via the library's digital platforms. "We have Libby and Comics Plus so anybody who wants to participate in the book club can read the book online," Agno said, adding that the county offers book-club kits ("book club to go") for groups that want multiple copies and discussion guides.

The library also plans related cultural programs for Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, including origami and children's activities that connect local history and community engagement. Staff encouraged residents to visit library branches, borrow book-club kits or join online copies to participate in discussions and events.

Library staff said they will publicize event details and links on the library website and social-media channels.