Lead the Way: Libraries at the Heart of Community Engagement

Ready to deepen the impact of your library’s Read program? A community Read is a powerful way to spotlight societal concerns for local viewing with book choice and programming. Learn how you can expand the scope of your library Read by creatively engaging area organizations and building regional partnerships in innovative ways. By examining a model of how a city Read initiated by La Crosse Public Library (WI) evolved to include the surrounding area with La Crosse County Library, others throughout nearby states and, eventually, the Winding Rivers Library System, session participants will gain a unique understanding of ways a Regional Read can leverage the power of the local while furthering an inclusive practice that enlivens localities both rural and urban.

Session participants will engage in creative workshopping activities that help identify potential Read partnerships within and across their communities, as well as timely book topics and programming ideas.