Friends of Given Memorial Library and the Tufts Archives will host its 2006 Fall Literary Luncheon, featuring popular columnist Jim Dodson. Attendance supports Given Memorial Library and Archives.

Dodson rarely needs an introduction, as a bestselling author and Sunday columnist in The Pilot. Sure to entertain, Dodson will present new material, share amusing insights and warm our hearts.

"Whether he is seen walking in Southern Pines, or researching the perfect iced tea with Junior in Aberdeen, Jim Dodson turns everyday events into pure joy," says a spokesman.

Regarded as a master storyteller, Dodson is one of America's most popular golf writers. His presentations have been very popular in the Sandhills since he began in 2005 as an author-in-residence.

Frequently commuting from his base camp in Maine, where Wendy, his wife, and children live, Dodson's energy and vivid writing keep readers loyal and entertained. Fellow gardeners have enjoyed his reminiscences of world gardens in "Beautiful Madness" (2005), as well as his most memorable story, "Final Rounds," about his trip to St. Andrews with his father.

Other poignant books include "The Dewsweepers," "Ben Hogan: An American Life," and "The Road to Somewhere." In his early days, Dodson was a reporter for the Greensboro News and Record.

"North Carolina has produced so many good writers, and we are fortunate to have Jim Dodson to discuss every Monday morning," says the spokesman.

Last year, the luncheon featured award-winning author William Martin. Doug Marlette, "Kudzu" cartoonist and author of "The Bridge," proved to be an enjoyable success in 2004, and established a new standard for the annual event.

The community is encouraged to attend and the author will sign books after the program.

The Friends of Given Memorial Library was established in 1997 to provide support for a variety of library activities, including books, facility and space improvements, materials, technology, staffing and programs such as the children's programming. The Friends created the Given Book Shop at Olmsted Plaza to sell "gently used" books, tapes, puzzles, and literary items, such as the Old Pinehurst Village note cards. Profits from the Book Shop support Given Memorial Library.

The annual Fall Literary Luncheon is a special program to thank the community for its support for the Library during the past year, as well as a fundraising event for the Friends.

Tickets are $25 ($5 less than last year) for general admission. Tickets are available at the Given Library, Given Book Shop, The Country Book Shop, and Cook's Choice. An open wine bar will be available prior to the luncheon, which will be in the St. Andrew's Room at PCC this year. Valet parking will be available as usual.