The Pierce County Library System launches a Year of Reading, starting with Pierce County READS showcasing bestselling author Kristin Hannah, author of “The Great Alone” and “The Nightingale.”

“In the past year we heard a lot from people in our communities – about what they wanted from their Pierce County Library. We heard very clearly that people here love to read, and they want their Library to offer them access to reading and lots and lots of books!” said Library Executive Director Georgia Lomax. “That’s why we are declaring 2019 A Year of Reading, with Pierce County READS kicking off a year of good stories and amazing authors.”

Pierce County READS is highlighted by a free author talk and book signing with Hannah Saturday, Feb. 16, at 1 p.m. at McGavick Conference Center on the Clover Park Technical College campus at 4500 Steilacoom Blvd. in Lakewood. Pierce County READS events will also include several book discussions.

Pierce County READS brings together Pierce County residents to engage, read and talk about great books. This winter’s selection, “The Great Alone,” explores the untamed and unpredictable world of 1974 Alaska while Hannah’s other award-winning novel, “The Nightingale,” tells of love and strength in the face of World War II. Both books are making the leap to the big screen as major motion pictures.

Hannah, a local author, with an international following, has a worldly view and talent for writing that takes readers to a different time and place. The Pacific Northwest native and former attorney, has written more than 20 books during her career including “Firefly Lane,” “Night Road” and “Winter Garden.”

Doors for the author event on Feb. 16 open at noon. Seating is first come, first served. People may purchase books at the event from King’s Books.

The Library System is declaring 2019 A Year of Reading, to help people offset the pressures of daily life and help them relax. A Year of Reading will include author visits, personal reading shoppers in libraries and online through the Library’s My Next Read service, e-newsletters with reading recommendations, Read with a Dog to build children’s reading skills, and other ways to engage and connect people with reading.

Pierce County READS events are free thanks to the generous sponsorship of the Pierce County Library Foundation.