by Shawn Nowlin
There are so many benefits to learning how to read at an early age. More than just building crucial language, doing so also develops cognitive skills, creates a word gap advantage, improves social-emotional skills and sets a foundation for lifelong learning.
Long before he was sworn in as Roanoke’s Mayor, Joe Cobb was a prominent voice in the community who advocated for all ages to read regularly. Recently, the mayor committed to a new endeavor.
The Cobb Collective is an opportunity for the community to read books and have honest conversations with the mayor. In the coming months, four locations will host the event – Main Library (Jan. 21), Belmont Library (Feb. 11), Williamson Road Library (March 7) and Raleigh Court Library (April 14).
“Today’s the day for the first of this year’s series of monthly book discussions with Mayor Joe Cobb! Come ready to talk about business books,” wrote Roanoke Public Libraries on its Facebook page on Jan. 21. “Free lunch will be provided, and we encourage you to bring a copy of your favorite business or leadership book to pass on to someone else.”
“Growing up, around 10 years old, I did a lot of reading about golf. At that time, Jack Nicklaus was a hero of mine. That transitioned to when I began to learn about music. My parents were educators, and they certainly encouraged me in that regard,” Cobb said.
He added, “These events will feature a take-one, leave-one book share. I’m hopeful that we can garner a good percentage of youth attendees. Reading is powerful. Once I started reading, my life changed for the better.”
A native of Wichita, Kansas, after high school, Cobb earned a Bachelor of Philosophy Degree from Southwestern College, a Doctor of Ministry Degree from Columbia Theological Seminary and a Master of Divinity Degree from Perkins School of Theology.
In 2001, he moved to Roanoke with his husband, James. Together, they share four children – Ginny, JJ, Connor and Taylor – and two grandchildren, Harper Jane and William Brindley Gwin.
In addition to being the Chair of the Council of Community Services Board of Directors, Cobb is also involved with various other organizations: Roanoke Gun Violence Prevention Commission, Greater Roanoke Transit Company, Board of Directors for Equality Virginia, the Roanoke Valley Sisters Cities, Clean Valley Council and the Roanoke Valley and Alleghany Regional Commission.
In Dec. 2011, Cobb co-authored a book with the Rev. Leigh Anne Taylor, his former spouse. A unique, two-voice narrative between a gay man and a straight woman, the book explores their journey through marriage, children, coming out, divorce, healing and reconciliation.
Available for purchase on Amazon and Goodreads, the book is sure to be discussed when Cobb visits the different libraries.
“The Cobb Collective will happen every month this year. Each of the six Roanoke libraries will host it twice,” Cobb said. “I am excited about this opportunity. It’s going to be great connecting with the community.”
