Ready, set, read.

Sep. 6 marks National Read a Book Day, and we thought it would be a great time to ask one of Louisville’s newest literary celebrities about their favorite reads + Louisville activities.

If you haven’t met Gorp Gnimji and their sidekick, Stick, yet, you’re in for a treat. The yellow puppet mascot of the Louisville Free Public Library has captured the heart of Louisvillians across the city — from a recent write-up in The Courier-Journal to playing goalie for Racing Louisville FC — Gorp is quickly on their way to local legend status.

For a little background, Gorp has been representing the Louisville Free Public Library’s Adventures in Summer Reading program for the last two years, but recently rose to stardom as the library’s programming went virtual due to COVID-19.

Gorp’s reading adventures have taught children about Flamenco dancing, the science of volcanoes, local wildlife + more.

So without further ado, here is our Q&A with Gorp:

Where is your favorite place in Louisville to read a book outside of the library?

In a tree...preferably one with pinecones to snack on.

What’s your favorite summer reading adventure you’ve been on so far?

My first one in Louisville — at the South Central Library, as a Collider Artist in Resident!

Where do you want to go on a reading adventure next?

To be a riverboat captain and tour the Ohio river.

Who is your favorite Louisville author?

John Belski and his Belski’s Blog — his weather writing is so good.

Will you ever become the official mascot for Racing Louisville FC?

Do you think they would have me?!!

What do you and Stick like to do in Louisville when summer reading season ends?

Go Adventure Painting… And now, go to soccer games too!

How can people meet you?

If they can't find me outside, then they should write to me at the library — I’ll write back!!