The popular program Great Decisions at the Library returns to the Bainbridge Public Library this Saturday, and the lecture series will run through March 3.

Beginning Jan. 13, the community is invited to learn about and weigh in on eight of the most important foreign policy issues facing the United States today: “South Africa’s Fragile Democracy”; “Russia’s Foreign Policy”; “The Waning of Pax Americana”; “Global Health: Progress and Challenges”; “Media and Foreign Polic”; “U.S. Global Engagement and the Military”; “China and America: The New Geopolitical Equation”; and “Turkey: A Partner in Crisis.”

The lively discussions take place from 9:30 to 11 a.m. on Saturdays at Bethany Lutheran Church. All events are free, with donations appreciated. Refreshments are provided.

Now in its 13th year, Great Decisions at the Library is part of a nation-wide, non-partisan program of the Foreign Policy Association intended to broaden public involvement in foreign affairs. While enjoying coffee and pastries, Great Decisions at the Library participants first view a 30-minute Foreign Policy Association DVD on the topic under consideration and then engage in a discussion lead by an informed moderator. A Briefing Book, published by the Foreign Policy Association, is also available.

Visit the Bainbridge Public Library website, www.BainbridgePublicLibrary.org, for the series schedule and for more details about this year’s eight topics.

Now part of Library U, the Bainbridge Public Library’s lifelong learning program, Great Decisions at the Library is sponsored by the Kitsap Regional Library with funding support from the Bainbridge Island Friends of the Library and a generous donation from the family of Louise Brody Weissman.

Email GreatDecisionsBainbridge@gmail.com to be added to the mailing list for suggested background readings on the topics and other information about Great Decisions at the Library.

The readings will also be posted on the Bainbridge Public Library website (www.bainbridgepubliclibrary.org) about a week before each discussion. Copies of the Briefing Book may be purchased for $20 (cash or check only) at the Bainbridge Public Library information desk. A copy is also available for reading in the library.