The Big Read wants you!

Do you enjoy reading? Would you like to present or participate in a community-wide reading program?

The Big Read is accepting applications from nonprofits to develop community-wide reading programs between September 2013 and June 2014.  Eligible applicants include such organizations as literary centers, libraries, museums, colleges and universities, art centers, historical societies, arts councils, tribal governments, local governments, humanities councils, literary festivals and arts organizations. Organizations selected to participate receive a grant, educational and promotional materials and online training resources and opportunities. Approximately 75 organizations from across the country will be selected.

The Big Read is a national program designed to encourage reading for pleasure and enlightenment. Participating communities read and discuss a single book. Each community event lasts approximately one month and includes a kick-off event, major events devoted specifically to the book (panel discussions, author reading, and the like); events using the book as a point of departure (film screenings, theatrical readings, and so forth); and book discussions in diverse locations and aimed at a wide range of audiences.

Individuals can get involved by sharing Big Read information and encouraging their local library, museum or other arts organization to apply. In fact, there are Ten Ways To Get Involved.

To review the guidelines and application instructions, visit The Big Read website. The application deadline is Feb. 5, 2013.

Think about taking the lead for The Big Read!

Note: Allen University in Columbia is South Carolina’s only current Big Read participant. Find out about their activities, scheduled for March 2013.

The Big Read is a program of the National Endowment for the Arts in partnership with Arts Midwest.

Via: The Big Read