Actor Leslie Jordan, who is entertaining millions of Instagram followers with his thoughts on the coronavirus, will offer a story suitable for the younger set at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 9. Chattanooga Public Library officials say they've booked "everyone's favorite quarantine buddy and all-around silly goose" for a bedtime story reading of Jimmy Kimmel's "The Serious Goose" on the library's Facebook and Instagram pages.
Worth noting: The time slot puts him in direct competition with another Tennessee icon. Dolly Parton reads bedtime stories from her Imagination Library at 7 p.m. Thursdays. The "Goodnight With Dolly" readings are streamed on YouTube.
Jordan, known for his roles on "Will & Grace" and "American Horror Story," is a native of Chattanooga who recently returned to be near his mother. While in quarantine, Jordan started sharing videos of how he's spending his time, and those have gone viral due to the star's lovable, quirky personality.
Closed to the public since March 14, the Chattanooga Public Library has sought out ways to stay connected with patrons and continue providing educational programming. One major outlet has been social media, and the library now has a regular schedule of videos for all ages. Library officials report that storytime is the most in-demand program, so they reached out to Jordan about doing a special storytime. He agreed immediately and selected Kimmel's book, which is read aloud through special permission from Penguin Random House.
"I am beyond thrilled and gracious that Mr. Jordan has offered to do this for us," said Executive Director Corinne Hill. "When we closed our doors, we were concerned about the parents and caregivers who rely on our programs. I'm so proud of our staff who have stepped up to produce new videos every week, right from their homes."
The library is also offering its early literacy programs - Baby Bounce, Toddler Time and Preschool Storytime - every morning Monday through Friday. Fans of the library can also find tutorials on crafting, sewing, STEAM projects and using the recording studio, as well as poetry readings, book recommendations and links to free educational and entertaining websites.
To watch Jordan's bedtime story and keep up with the library's virtual programs, visit CPL on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
Contact Lisa Denton at ldenton@timesfreepress.com.