Reading can be a profound experience when a book speaks to one’s imagination, provides insight into a common experience, or sheds light on a truth. Reading together can bring families, friends, community groups and others closer as they share literature together. To promote reading across Ohio, the State Library of Ohio is launching a new program called Choose to Read Ohio during National Library Week, April 12-18, 2009.

“The goal of Choose to Read Ohio is to encourage the reading of Ohio literature together across Ohio communities,” said State Librarian Jo Budler. Ohioans of all ages will choose a book to read together, by an Ohio author of their choice, over a six week period anytime between National Library Week and the end of 2010.  As part of this shared experience, they will come together to discuss these books in a variety of settings including local public libraries, schools, churches, daycares, or other organizations. Choose to Read Ohio encourages Ohioans to Read Together, Read Ohio, and Read for Life.

The Choose to Read Ohio booklist has four current titles and one classic for the three categories of Children’s, Young Adult, and Adult.  Libraries, schools, and other organizations will have the option of utilizing the books and resources throughout the 2009-2010 program year.  The Choose to Read Ohio website offers downloadable toolkits for each title as well as resources to support the program. Throughout 2009 resources will be added to the website for educators and librarians to utilize. Tip sheets, author information, and other resources will be included.

The State Library of Ohio began discussing the possibility of a statewide reading project in June, 2008. In partnership with The Ohioana Library, Choose to Read Ohio will be promoted at the Ohioana Book Festival, May 9, 2009. The festival will provide a wonderful venue for meeting Ohio authors and sharing details about this program.  Choose to Read Ohio partners also  include WOSU Public Media, The Ohio Channel Government Television, Kent State University School of Library and Information Science, and Ohio’s Public Libraries. Together, the partners envision a statewide program that will promote reading and sharing quality literature across the Buckeye state.

For more information on Choose to Read Ohio contact Ruth Metcalf, Library Consultant, State Library of Ohio, rmetcalf@sloma.state.oh.us