The Big Read

The Big Read is the Library District's annual program to enhance literacy. Each April the Library offers a variety of programs to motivate the community to read and discuss issues raised in the books. Programs range from book discussions, movies that support the titles or themes, author visits and activities for young people. The Library works with community partners to enrich the Big Read program and experience.

How do I participate?

Businesses, schools and nonprofits: Join the Library to support the Big Read. Contact Kathleen O'Dell, Community Relations Director, 417-616-0564.

Readers: Anyone can participate! Get a copy of any of the books in print, audio or electronic format, and start reading. Encourage others to read, discuss the books and their themes and attend the Library Big Read programs in April.

Recollections and Connections

Building on the Big Read's look at coming of age in another era, seven branch libraries will help patrons record brief stories of their past. Anyone can record a story or interview a loved one about their youth or family traditions.

The stories will be posted later on the Library's Big Read web site. Radio station KSMU will select a different story to air each Friday in April.

"Recollections and Connections" recordings will be conducted March 1 through 14 on selected days at these Library branches. Call ahead to reserve a 15-minute time slot.

• Library Center, March 1-7, call 882-0714
• Ash Grove, March 2, call 751-2933
• Willard, March 1 and 3, call 742-4258
• Midtown Carnegie, March 8-9, call 862-0135
• Republic, March 11 and 12, call 732-7284
• Brentwood, March 10-13, call 883-1974
• Library Station, March 13 and 14, call 865-1340