Former Austinite and now a resident of the Hudson Valley, journalist Alex Hannaford gives a critical exploration of the transformation that has befallen one of America’s most beloved cities—which serves as a warning for what the homogenization of cities means for American urban identity.

With a journalist’s perspective and the heart of an Austinite, Alex Hannaford delves into the consequences of the city’s rapid growth in chapters that chronicle the major movements permanently altering the city: a vanishing scene, soaring property values, and the encroachment of major industry. Through keen reportage and extensive interviews, Lost in Austin unveils the toll of unchecked growth and the city’s shift from its rebellious spirit to commercialization. Hannaford raises a crucial question: How do American cities, once celebrated for their unique values, became casualties of their own rapid growth and success? And can they ever return to what they once were? RSVP for this event through Oblong Books by clicking here. 
 

Alex Hannaford has worked as a journalist since 1997 and has contributed to publications including The Guardian & Observer, British GQ, The Sunday Times, The Atlantic, and The Nation. He cowrote and hosted Dead Man Talking, a crime podcast for Audioboom, available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, etc. which won silver at the 2019 British Podcast Awards. He is the writer and director of The Last 40 Miles, an award-winning animated short film about the death penalty. Alex is a Fellow of The Dart Center for Journalism & Trauma at Columbia University.

Michelle Montalbano is the Program Director for Rhinebeck's Starr Library. Michelle came to Starr in 2022 after five years at Brooklyn Public Library, where she was both the Adult Services Librarian in the neighborhood of Red Hook and a reference librarian at the Center for Brooklyn History, BPL’s archives and special collections. She focused on programming, exhibitions, and community outreach. When she’s not at her desk, you can find her on her bicycle, making things (especially dinner), keeping up her NY Times crossword streak, and (to no one’s surprise) reading and writing.

Oblong Books in Rhinebeck is a fully wheelchair accessible space with on-site van accessible parking. Microphones and speakers will not be used at this event but can be made available with advance notice. Our chairs are stackable and have arms. If you have specific questions about the space or how an event can be made more accessible to you, please do not hesitate to contact us: info@oblongbooks.com.