According to the Liepāja Central Scientific Library, public reading initiatives allow visitors to borrow books recommended by local cultural figures from a dedicated “Liepājnieki lasa” shelf. The community-driven shelf connects readers with personal recommendations from educators, musicians, and artists.
Ināra Knitnere Recommends Edvins Gilberts’ “Dzimtais akmens”
Liepāja Friendly Appeal Secondary School teacher Ināra Knitnere recommends the novel “Dzimtais akmens” by Edvins Gilberts. According to Knitnere, she revisits the novel roughly every two years because the plot and its focus on architecture resonate with her perspective.
The story follows an architect named Ralf and explores themes of architectural values, style, and professional struggles. Knitnere notes that while the book is not an easy read initially, it offers deep insights into human relationships and personal change. She frequently lends her well-worn copy to friends, noting that it always returns with positive feedback.
Igeta Ozoliņa Highlights Folk Heritage in “Rucavas garamantas”
Ethnomusician, music teacher, and psychodrama specialist Igeta Ozoliņa recommends the two-volume collection “Rucavas garamantas,” published by Zinātne and compiled by Māra Vīksne. According to Ozoliņa, the publication serves as an ethnographic encyclopedia of Rucava.
The volumes contain folk songs, beliefs, fairy tales, recipes, and local dialect dictionaries gathered over years from more than 50 Rucava contributors. Ozoliņa emphasizes the scientific approach of the work and uses the texts in her daily musical practice, appreciating the regional linguistic nuances and traditions.
Guntis Kolerts Chooses “Pēdējais līvs” by Līga Blaua
Liepaja Symphony Orchestra double bass section concertmaster Guntis Kolerts recommends Līga Blaua’s biography “Pēdējais līvs,” focused on the late “Līvi” guitarist and songwriter Ainars Virga. Kolerts states that a recent conversation with Ainars Virga prompted him to revisit the book and recall their shared school years at the Emīls Melngaiķis Liepāja Music Secondary School.
The book details the realities of rock music as a form of protest against Soviet rule in Liepāja. Kolerts notes that the biography reveals both the tight-knit bond of the school’s creative community and the heavy personal toll of fame.
Līga Petre-Gūtmane Shares Childhood Memories and Sallie Salminen’s “Katrina”
Artist Līga Petre-Gūtmane recommends Sallie Salminen’s novel “Katrina,” a book she has read multiple times. J.
According to Petre-Gūtmane, “Katrina” left a lasting impression due to the protagonist’s immense resilience in overcoming hardship. She draws parallels between the fictional character’s perseverance and her own artistic journey, including exhibiting her work in Paris.
Pro Tip for Book Lovers
According to local readers featured in the Liepāja library project, revisiting classic or personally meaningful books over the years often reveals previously unnoticed nuances and provides fresh perspectives on familiar plots.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the “Liepājnieki lasa” shelf?
It is a special shelf at the Liepāja Central Scientific Library where visitors can borrow books recommended by local public figures and cultural workers.
Where can readers find “Rucavas garamantas”?
The two-volume ethnographic collection, compiled by Māra Vīksne and published by Zinātne, is available for researchers and readers interested in Latvian folklore.
What subjects does the novel “Dzimtais akmens” cover?
Edvins Gilberts’ novel centers on an architect named Ralf, examining architectural integrity, professional competition, and shifting personal relationships.
Join the Conversation
What is a book that you find yourself returning to year after year? Share your favorite literary recommendations in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for more local cultural updates.
Keep reading