COUNTYWIDE : Public Officials Join Library Read-Aloud

The book that Municipal Judge Barry Klopfer liked most as a child was “The Little Engine That Could.”

The story of the determined little engine that chugged its way over the steep mountain parallels Klopfer’s own struggle with being physically disabled from birth.

It’s the book that he chose to read to children this week as Ventura County libraries celebrate the second annual “Day of 1,000 Stars--Great American Read Aloud.”

Klopfer is among 50 public officials and local celebrities reading from their favorite books Tuesday and today in the county’s 10 libraries. It’s part of National Library Week and the goal is to get youngsters hooked on reading.

For Klopfer, reading was a big part of his childhood. He has prostheses on both legs and one arm that is fitted with a hook.

“Summer was the time for corrective surgery,” he said. “I was laid up for weeks and months.” Family members tirelessly read to him.

He said the message in “The Little Engine That Could” was similar to his parents’ attitude about his disability. “It was a positive atmosphere, one of not quitting, not saying I can’t or that it’s too hard.”

This is the second year for the celebrity read-aloud program; Klopfer read the book last year as well. He prefaces the reading by telling his curious young listeners about his disability.

Other readers in the program include county supervisors, educators, a bank officer, newspaper editors and a radio personality.

Dist. Atty. Michael D. Bradbury chose “Dumbo,” about the big-eared little elephant who learns that he doesn’t need a special feather to fly.

Bradbury said he likes the message in the book: “You don’t need outside crutches to accomplish things in life.” He said it’s a theme that can be carried over to the ongoing fight to keep children off drugs and alcohol.

For her selection, Simi Valley dance instructor Patsy Swayze picked several picture books about dance. Her first choice is “Going to My Ballet Class,” a look at what boys and girls do in dance classes.

“My parents were book lovers,” she said. “They always gave us books for birthdays and Christmas. I did the same for my children.” She has five grown children; all of them have been involved in theater, including actor Patrick Swayze.

Today’s read-aloud will include readings at public libraries in Ventura, Camarillo, Fillmore, Oxnard, Ojai, Port Hueneme and Simi Valley. For information, call 652-7517.