Amherst Reads Overview
History of the One Book One Community Concept
Amherst is not the first to develop the "One Book" concept. It actually started in 1996 in Seattle, Washington. Their original purpose was to develop a community of readers with a shared sense of importance for reading, writing, and expressing ideas.
Shortly afterwards, Chicago launched its "One Book, One Chicago" program. It was the first city of its size to develop a citywide book club. The purpose was to bring together people of diverse ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds to read and discuss a single book, To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee. Chicago received national acclaim for their program and because of its success, the Chicago Public Library now offers the program twice a year.
There are now literally hundreds of One Book One Community programs throughout the United States and Canada. Each one is unique, whether it be the book or theme they choose or the events and programs that are run in conjunction with that particular literacy campaign. Amherst is proud to be a part of this growing national tradition.
The Purpose of Amherst Reads
Launched in October 2004, Amherst Reads is a community-wide literacy initiative to promote literacy and a joy of reading. The Amherst Reads Committee, a coalition of local librarians, educators, area businesses, parents and community leaders, is asking citizens of diverse ethnic, social, educational and economic backgrounds to participate in a unique program designed to promote better communication among the residents of Amherst and its surrounding towns during the month of October 2005. The goal of Amherst Reads is to reach as many citizens as possible, encouraging everyone to read and discuss the same book during the same time period. Although entitled Amherst Reads, this program is really for any individual, not just Amherst residents, who values literacy, is a book lover and would like to encourage those same values in children within their community.
Reading encourages an open mind and fosters the ability to see other points of view. "One Book, One Community" is intended not only to direct civic discussion but also to promote literacy and generate interest in reading in general. These are essential ingredients for the health of our region.
You can find copies of the books at any public library and at your local bookstore. Whether you share a moment reading a book with your child, discuss the latest plot twist over the dinner table, take part in a formal discussion group, or attend one of the many Amherst Reads events going on in your community, the experiences created from participating in this program will be rewarding and worthwhile.
The Amherst Reads Committee
Amherst Reads is coordinated by a coalition of local librarians, educators, area businesses, parents and community leaders who are firmly committed to the joys of reading and the importance of creating events where families can have fun together. This committee works closely together to develop dialogue, community outreach, business partnerships, educational opportunities and special events.
Who Should Participate in Amherst Reads
The short answer is: anyone who is a book lover! Although entitled AMHERST READS, all citizens in the surrounding communities are encouraged to participate via their local library. Many public libraries in the greater Amherst area are running programs in October in conjunction with Amherst Reads.
All who have participated in Amherst Reads - Jon Scieszka , and those who haven't but love fun-filled family events, are encouraged to attend The Amherst Reads Literary Festival on October 29, 2005 at the Jones Library.
This page last updated on August 30, 2005.