Beginning in February 2008, the Friends of the North Plains Public Library have sponsored an annual One Book-One Community Program which features a month long series of events centered around a chosen book. Hundreds of books are distributed free of charge to community members who wish to participate in the program.
Community Reading projects benefit a library in several ways, some quantifiable, others not. The most important non-quantifiable benefit is this: Community Reading projects position the library as a major player in the cultural life of a community. The library is no longer simply a place to come to use the computers, or to find information, or the most recent best-seller (all vital aspects of the library’s mission in themselves, of course); rather, the library becomes a destination for people who are interested in discussing books, a venue for author visits and for other cultural and humanities programs. One Book, One Community projects are an excellent way to start building a community of readers that finds its home base in the library.
In 2010, the book, “Three Cups of Tea: One Man’s Mission to Fight Terrorism and Build Nations,” by Greg Mortenson was the chosen book. To enhance the reading and understanding of Mortenson’s work, Friends of the North Plains Library arranged for speakers and cultural entertainment throughout the month. All “One Book, One Community” events are free.
In 2009, the book “Stubborn Twig” by Lauren Kessler was chosen. A wide variety of events were sponsored by the Friends of the North Plains Public Library to enhance the understanding of the Japanese internment program during World War II as described in the book.
In 2008, the book “Shadow of the Wind” by Carlos Ruiz Zafon was chosen as Community Reads book. Events included book discussions, film presentations, Barcelona travel lectures, Spanish history lecture, Spanish art history lecture, Spanish architecture lecture, tango and flamenco dance demonstrations and lessons, and culinary samplings.
