Does reading matter? Of course it does. For me, it’s been a lifelong companion. As a kid, I wandered into the Earlville Public Library and found a world I didn’t even know existed. That place was full of wonders—old artifacts, novels (especially science fiction), and rows of the Encyclopedia Britannica. I’d spend hours there, guided by a librarian who always seemed to know just what to suggest next. Every visit opened a new door, whether it was a fresh idea or a story that transported me somewhere else entirely.
Reading isn’t just a pastime. It shapes us. It helps us grow, see things from different perspectives, and better understand the world we live in. And it’s not just about personal growth either—literacy and democracy go hand-in-hand. An informed public is what keeps a democracy alive and thriving. Without the ability to read, learn, and think critically, how do we hold it all together?
This November, our corner of West Michigan—Ottawa, Muskegon, and Allegan counties—will come together for “The Big Read.” It’s not just a local event; it’s part of a larger movement coordinated by Hope College and supported by the Midwest Regional Arts. The Big Read encourages everyone, from the youngest readers to adults, to dive into a book. But more than that, it’s about creating connection. When we all read the same book and come together to talk about it, something special happens; we become part of a shared story, a community that’s learning together.
This year, for adults and teens, we’ll be reading The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald. It’s one of those classics that never really gets old. Themes like ambition, love, loss, and the American Dream are as relevant now as they were when Fitzgerald wrote them. And the great thing about “The Big Read” is that we don’t just stop at reading. We’ll have discussions, events, and all sorts of activities that help us dig deeper into the book’s themes. For younger readers, four other books with similar messages have been selected, so everyone—from preschoolers to middle schoolers—can join the conversation.
“The Big Read” started in 2006 with the National Endowment for the Arts. Their mission? To remind us of the power of reading. They partnered with Arts Midwest to bring communities together, encouraging us to read, discuss, and connect. Because here’s the thing: books aren’t just a solo experience. They’re a way to bridge gaps, build understanding, and bring people together.
So, how’s your community doing when it comes to literacy? A good way to gauge it is to visit your local library. Is it busy? Does it feel like a vibrant place where people are learning and creating? Has it embraced new trends like “maker spaces” or learning hubs? And most importantly, is it supported? Public libraries often rely on tax referendums to keep going strong. How we support our libraries reflects how much we value literacy and education.
Libraries have always held a special place in my heart. Like Harold Hill from The Music Man, I stayed in River City—and, 30 years ago, I married the librarian. You just never know where a love of books will lead you. But one thing I know for sure: it’s always worth the journey.