Santa Monica Reads

Library Adult Senior

Santa Monica Reads is one of the longest-running community-wide reading programs in the United States, offering a unique opportunity for individuals to come together, read a shared book, and participate in enriching discussions and events. This program fosters a sense of connection and community, encouraging dialogue, understanding, and a shared love of literature across diverse audiences. Previous book selections include L.A. Weather by María Amparo Escandón, The Sum of Us: What Racism Costs Everyone and How We Can Prosper Together by Heather McGhee, Lady Tan's Circle of Women by Lisa See, and Where I Was From by Joan Didion.

Santa Monica Reads is funded by the Friends of the Santa Monica Public Library.

Return to the Library homepage

Jump to Section:

FAQ

How are books selected?

Each spring, the Santa Monica Public Library solicits book recommendations from the public. A group of librarians researches each title suggested, then cuts the longer suggestion list down to a manageable short list of five or six nominees that meet a number of criteria including the potential for discussion the book is likely to provoke, whether or not the book is currently in print and available for a large-scale bulk purchase, whether the author (if living) is available to come to Santa Monica to discuss the book, and a number of other factors. An Advisory Committee comprised of librarians, educators, city commissioners and other community members then reads each of those shortlisted nominees over the summer. At the end of the summer, the Advisory Committee meets to discuss the books and a selection is made. Selections are usually announced shortly thereafter.

How can I participate in Santa Monica Reads?

Read the book, then join us at any of the many discussions we have scheduled or at one or more of our special events. Reads usually takes place in late winter/early spring. Check the Library's calendar of events for more information on Santa Monica Reads events as they are scheduled.

How can I volunteer to be a discussion facilitator?

We currently have a veteran group of discussion facilitators who volunteer each year, but we're always looking for ways those interested in participating in Santa Monica Reads can help us out. The best way to take part is to join us at one or more of our book discussions or special events and let the staff member coordinating that event know you're interested in participating further. When we have openings, we tend to pull from this group of people who've let us know in person that they're interested in helping out on a larger scale.

What types of events happen during Santa Monica Reads?

In addition to book discussions held throughout the city over a four to five week period, we host additional special events related to each year's selection. In the past, these events have included author talks with that year's author (if they are living and able to join us), special events related to the subject matter of the book, lectures by scholars on topics related to the book, as well concerts, readings, and movie screenings. Like all Santa Monica Public Library events, Santa Monica Reads events are free and open to the public.