When I first moved to DC, I was astonished at the opportunities that the public has to hear amazing speakers, attend interesting lectures, and experience film, art, and culture- all for free.  During my first months of exploring DC, I always assumed that “free and open to the public” was somehow a ploy, and I was sure that I would be figured out as an imposter and asked to leave.  I felt that way a bit again today when I took an extended lunch break to hear former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright speak about her new book Memo to the President Elect at the Library of Congress.  Through their Center for the Book, the Library brings in well-respected Americans and authors to promote interest in books and reading, and have invited the public to participate.   

Growing up with a love of foreign cultures and history, Secretary Albright has long been one of my role models.  Today, as I sat in the Jefferson Library, I was awed to listen to her gracious discussion about the strengths and the challenges of our nation, and the obstacles that face the next president.  I was delighted to see a mixture of the public attend, from tourists to students, to people like me on their lunch break.  It was an amazing opportunity to celebrate the book and the story. 

Learn more about Library of Congress events, or watch cybercasts of past events, at www.loc.gov.