Selma library to feature author who restores historical buildings, including Brown Chapel | News

April’s Lunch at the Library will feature a book about a disciple written by one of the nation’s leading restorers of historical buildings.

“You Will be Peter” is written by Jerry Lathan, founder and owner of The Lathan Company, a historic restoration company focusing on landmark buildings, monuments, churches and civil rights institutions. His company has been involved in several major restorations, including the ongoing restoration of Selma’s Brown Chapel Church.

On Thursday, April 24, the Selma Public Library will celebrate the book and Lathan’s accomplishment.

Tickets are $15 and may be purchased at the library or emailing dana@selmalibrary.org.

“You Will Be Peter” draws on intense research to weave Simon Peter’s story into one seamless tapestry. Readers get a front-row seat to Simon’s three-year walk with Jesus and the disciples and witnesses first-hand miracles and experiences.

With storytelling artistry that transports readers to the first-century world, with the sights, sounds and smells of that time, “You Will Be Peter” shows it’s possible for one ordinary person, however unlikely, to change the world forever. The book was written with Steven Manchester.

Lathan has made a career changing the world through construction projects. Some of his projects include the Smithsonian’s Arts and Industry Building and the Netherlands Carillon Monument at Arlington Cemetery, several HBCU colleges and most of the buildings in Jackson Square in New Orleans.

He has received the Louisiana Society Award for Excellence in Historic Preservation and has received a number of awards from the American Institute of Architects.

He is a graduate of The University of South Alabama; he was named a USA Mitchell Business College Fellow Top 50 Alumni and is a member of the President’s Cabinet.