Alabama Reads

The Big Read: Alabama Reads is a statewide campaign designed to increase literacy and library usage in the state of Alabama by encouraging citizens of all ages to read.

A 2004 survey by the National Endowment for the Arts found that not only is literary reading in America declining rapidly among all groups, but the rate of decline has accelerated, especially among adolescents. The Big Read aims to address this crisis squarely and effectively. It provides citizens with the opportunity to read and discuss a single book within their communities. The Big Reads: Alabama Reads, an initiative of the National Endowment for the Arts, is encouraging all Alabama residents in 2010 to join in reading The Adventures of Tom Sawyer by Mark Twain.

The Big Read: Alabama Reads The Adventures of Tom Sawyer by Mark Twain will be taking place from February 2nd to April 17th. There will be state and regional events available for community members to attend in every county. Events include campaign kick-offs in each region, Panel Discussions, lectures, public readings, book discussions and other events themed after The Adventures of Tom Sawyer. However, the strength of The Big Read: Alabama Reads comes from local communities working together for a common purpose, reading one book. Citizens of all ages, schools, organizations and businesses can help make this campaign a success by participating in the events included in the calendar of events listed on the official Web site, www.alabamareads.org.

The Big Read: Alabama Reads is a statewide program addressing literacy in Alabama and encouraging the use of public libraries in local communities. This year, Alabama Reads is partnering with The Big Read through the National Endowment for the Arts, reading Mark Twain’s The Adventures of Tom Sawyer.

The Big Read is an initiative of the National Endowment for the Arts in partnership with the Institute of Museum and Library Services and Arts Midwest designed to revitalize the role of literature in American culture and bring the transformative power of literature into the lives of its citizens. The Big Read brings together partners across the country to encourage citizens to read for pleasure and enlightenment.