Appearing on the November poster for the New Lebanon READ poster campaign is Bud Godfroy, seen reading a book from H. A Rey’s Curious George series and cradling J.M. Barrie’s Peter Pan.
“I will not grow up,” said Godfroy in explaining his choices of favorite books. “I am curious about things. I like to know the who, what, where and why of things. If I keep my youthful attitude, life goes on very smoothly,” he added.
And what could Godfroy possibly have to stress over? Well for one, he owns Godfroy’s Service Station, where he has worked since 1967 and co-owned or owned since 1982. He is also current Assistant Chief of the New Lebanon Protective Association serving as a volunteer fire fighter for the past 39 years, Captain of Columbia County Hazmat and a certified NY fire instructor. When not fixing or towing cars or responding to emergency situations, he is performing improvisation at the Chatham House, stand-up comedy in area venues and murder mysteries in people’s homes. “I find that humor, laughing with someone, not at someone, can get us through all types of situations,” said Godfroy.
Inspired by the American Library Association READ program, NL READ promotes reading and the use of library services through posters that feature local citizens reading their favorite book. The campaign is planned to continue into May 2010. Jane Feldman, an award wining photojournalist, photographed the subjects for the poster campaign.