Winter Reading Programs Start in January!
2018 BFF Gingerbread Event
Cook Public Library's Great Read
The Count of Monte Cristo--Alexandre Dumas
Cook Public Library receives
“The Great American Read” programming grants
from ALA and PBS
Grant will support library programs about Americans’ best-loved books
Cook, MN — Cook Public Library will receive a grant from the American Library Association (ALA) and PBS to host programs around “The Great American Read,” an eight-part television series and multi-platform initiative that celebrates the joy of reading and the books we love.
“This grant will allow us to host programs and events throughout the summer and purchase books for our collection,” said Cook Library Director Crystal Phillips. “We are honored to be the only library in Minnesota to receive this grant.”
More than 220 public libraries applied for the $2,000 grants, which will support public programs around the series. Cook Public Library was one of just 50 libraries nationwide to be selected.
In addition to the grant money, Cook Public Library will receive a DVD collection of the series with public performance rights; a hardcover copy of the companion book, “The Great American Read: The Book of Books” by PBS (Black Dog & Leventhal, August 21, 2018); and other resources.
The libraries will also have the opportunity to host “sneak peek” screenings of the series premiere and five theme episodes before they broadcast to the public.
Premiering May 22, “The Great American Read” will engage audiences with a list of 100 diverse books, encouraging audiences to read the books, vote from the list of 100, and share their personal connections to the titles.
The two-hour launch episode will kick off a summer of reading and voting. In fall 2018, seven new episodes will air, featuring appearances by celebrities, athletes, experts, authors and everyday Americans advocating for their favorite book, culminating with a finale that reveals America’s best-loved novel as chosen by the American public.