Contrary to what many coordinators assume, a famous author doesn’t always ensure instant success for their Common Reads Program. Librarians who rely on circulation numbers are often missing out on up-and-coming titles; university administrators who require a book-to-film component are underestimating their readers; and most importantly, venues that insist on visiting authors with household name […]
One of the many things Books In Common brings to the common reads’ table is the years of work we have done with a wide variety of venues to constantly improve their literary programs; through this wisdom, we hope venues old and new will pick up a tip or two and continue hosting successful common reads. An Interview with […]
The books chosen by colleges for all campus reads or freshman year experience programs vary widely, but as highlighted in an NPR article, most are contemporary pieces published within the past few years. Titles and authors vary from college to college and state to state, but many are focused on the same themes with topics diverse enough […]
When Books In Common/Terra Com was founded in 2001, Community Reading Programs as envisioned by pioneering Seattle Librarian Nancy Pearl were in their infancy. Since then, BIC has connected with thousands of literary programs across the globe, helping event planners as they face the sometimes daunting task of selecting the perfect book for their communities, partnering with the author, and ensuring that their specific goals are met and exceeded – year after year. We focus on these important programs because we passionately believe that building common ground around literature is one of the best ways to bridge the divide among race, religion, socio-economics, sexual orientation, politics, and cultural identities.
Maria E. Andreu took time to answer questions for Books In Common about her experiences as well as her book and the impact it has on readers.
Here at Books in Common, we strive to keep current on new books and authors that will be popular in Common and All Campus Reads programs. Finding a book that whole communities can relate to, as well as has themes that can create dynamic discussions, can be difficult for event coordinators.
