NEW YORK -- NEW YORK (AP) — Alec Baldwin was among the readers at a midday tribute to Philip Roth, the only living novelist to have his complete works published by the Library of America.


Hundreds gathered Tuesday at Temple Emanu-El in Manhattan for a free event co-sponsored by the Library of America and the cultural advocacy organization Toward International Peace Through the Arts


Baldwin and fellow actors John Rothman and Paul Carlin read passages from three Roth books: "Portnoy's Complaint," ''American Pastoral" and "The Plot Against America."


The 80-year-old Roth was scheduled to attend, but is still recovering from an infection last week and instead sent a note of regret.


The nonprofit Library of America issues hardcover editions of classic American literature.