The Rockport Library Foundation will host an evening with award-winning journalist and author Rachel Slade on Friday, May 23, at 6:30 p.m., at the Rockport Opera House. Slade will give a slideshow presentation entitled, “What Would it REALLY Take to Bring Manufacturing Back to the US?”

Through Slade's meticulous storytelling, the program will explore the intertwined histories of labor, economics, and policy that shape our nation's industrial landscape. She will expose the economic imperative and the profound resilience that reshoring promises —  from fortified supply chains to empowered workforces and a revitalized national identity.

Slade will dive deep into the compelling saga of American Roots, a Maine-based company daring to rewrite the narrative of domestic production. Founded by a husband-wife team who mortgaged their house and cashed out their retirements to finance their company, American Roots embodies a bold endeavor to resurrect a manufacturing ethos rooted in 21st-century ideals.

Rachel Slade’s reporting on environmental, cultural, and scientific topics has appeared in leading publications including The New York Times, The Boston Globe, and Boston magazine. She is the author of the critically acclaimed book Into the Raging Sea about the tragic sinking of the American cargo ship El Faro during Hurricane Joaquin in 2015. The book was a NYT Notable Book and a national bestseller. Her second book, Making It in America, explores the history of manufacturing and labor in the United States. Books will be available for sale and signing following the presentation.

The event is free and open to the public. Seating is limited. Tickets can be reserved by visiting rockportlibrary.net.