The Quincy Public Library, in partnership with Quincy Public and Private Schools, presents The Big Read 2009. This month-long initiative, designed to get members of the community to read the same book, at the same time, will begin on September 17th with a Big Read-In at Washington Park and Quincy Senior High. The sole goal of the campaign is to spark reading and discussion as a whole by the community.The Quincy Public Library has received a National Endowment for the Arts Big read grant that will make it possible to distribute a minimum of 500 copies of the book, To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee. The Library will host a film series and lecture series, and a final event will be held in the Adams County Courthouse. The Circuit Judges of Adams County have graciously agreed to participate in a new READ poster.
The generous support provided by the Quincy Herald Whig, Quincy Society of Fine Arts, Great Debate Books, and WGEM made our first attempt a wonderful success. We were delighted to have over 270 pick up their free copy of the book, and see over 350 patrons participate in the programs and discussions offered throughout the month. The "Get Caught Reading" ads designed by the Quincy Herald Whig and the Cover feature for the September Quincy Society of Fine Arts magazine added tremendously to the visibility of the campaign.
This year, the Big Read promises to be bigger and better with more books, community partners, book discussions, and lecture programs. We hope we see larger numbers of participants to reflect all our hard work!
