The entire city is invited to enjoy an evening of culture and community at the Malden Reads Opening Celebration on Thursday, Feb. 21.

Hosted at the library’s historic and elegant Converse Memorial Building from 6:30-8:30, the evening will feature food, exhibits and performances based on themes from the featured selection of Malden Reads 2013, “The Absolutely True Diary of a Part Time Indian” by Sherman Alexie.

Guests at the Opening Celebration are invite to:

• Enjoy food samplings from local restaurants, desserts, and soft drinks.
• View cultural exhibit tables that related to the themes of the book and tie into the flavor of Malden’s own community. Exhibitors include various cultural groups, Native American history, art and drawing.
• A feature half-hour presentation by award-winning Native American flutist and storyteller Joseph Firecrow will be offered in two seatings in the Ryder Gallery. He will be joined by Joanne Dunne, Executive Director of the North American Indian Center of Boston. 
• There will be a variety of music and dance performances in the Lower Gallery.
• Obtain information about the Malden Reads program, including the newly printed Calendar of Events brochure and fliers for upcoming events and programs
• Check out your library copy of the book or buy a book from the Bestsellers Cafe table
• Tours of the beautiful old library building will be led by John Tramondozzi, President of the Library Board of Trustees and the Malden Historical Society.

Admission to the event is free although donations to support the Malden Reads program are welcome

This year’s Malden Reads feature selection “The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-time Indian” explores themes of identity, overcoming adversity, straddling two worlds, and harnessing the tools of one’s own resiliency. It brings up issues around contemporary Native American culture. The book is an engaging read that includes cartoon drawings by artist Ellen Forney.

Companion books for younger readers have also been selected.

To find out more about Malden Reads, please visit www.maldenreads.org.