Missouri counties to become “One Book” communities

Newton and McDonald counties will join the Missouri Humanities Council and other counties and cities in Missouri in becoming a “One Book” community. The program, an outcropping of the Center for the Book, a non-profit partnership between the private sector and the government, was established in October 1977 by former librarian of the Library of Congress Daniel J. Boorstin to promote books, reading, libraries, and literacy.

During the month of November residents of the two counties are being asked by the NewMac (referencing the two counties) Literacy Roundtable, sponsor of the event, to choose the book. The community read officially will begin after all ballots are counted on December 4. Discussion groups and other events centered on the chosen selection will be planned to promote literacy throughout the counties. Read about the plans at The Joplin Independent online.