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Choose to Read Ohio

 
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Marsha McDevitt-Stredney
State LIbrary of Ohio
 
Choose to Read Ohio, a State Library of Ohio initiative, began last month during National Library Week and had its official kick-off this month at the Ohioana Book Festival on May 9th. Choose to Read Ohio is a statewide program with a goal to encourage the reading of Ohio literature together. The Choose to Read Ohio booklist has four current titles and one classic for the three categories of Children’s, Young Adult, and Adult. 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, community centers, daycares, or other organizations.
 

Mrs Strickland at the Choose To Read Ohio display during the Ohioana Book Festival

 In partnership with Ohioana Library, Choose to Read Ohio was featured at the Ohioana Book Festival. First Lady Mrs. Frances Strickland introduced the project, describing her love for reading and experiences with children and books. Ruth Metcalf, State Library of Ohio Library Consultant, led a panel discussion with six of the Choose to Read Ohio authors including Jaime Adoff, Louise Borden, Andrea Cheng, Sharon M. Draper, Margaret Peterson Haddix, and Ann Hagedorn. The authors discussed the stories in their Choose to Read Ohio books, their writing processes, and current projects. They were also available for readings and book signing opportunities throughout the day.
 A toolkit with resources and information about Choose to Read Ohio is available on WebJunction Ohio. Each book has a section where WebJunction Ohio affiliated members can share their experiences and insights about the program.