What is a Community Read initiative? 

A Community Read is a book club for the entire city, cultivating a culture of reading and discussion in Irving by bringing people together around great works of literature.

Designed to restore reading to the center of American culture, Irving adopted the annual Community Reads in response to Irving’s strategic goal of promoting effective communication among all members of the community. Each Community Read continues to draw in new customers and engage the established customer base while encouraging literacy and community bonding.

Irving's Community Reads

A Variety of Events for All Ages

Occurring in October, each year Irving Public Library hosts a variety of events for all ages that help bring the books and story themes alive. Partnering organizations include:

  • Irving Independent School District
  • National Scouting Museum
  • City of Irving Animal Services
  • Irving Recreation Centers

Along with the above organizations, and many other city departments and civic organizations, the Community Reads move out beyond the library and into the community allowing the Library to continually reach new audiences.

The Community Reads have grown tremendously in Irving, each building on the past initiatives. The inaugural read in 2006 had over 400 community members participate. In 2009, the initiative grew to over 4,000 participating. The number of free books distributed to the community during promotional activities and events has increased, as well, with over 3,900 books given out to readers of all ages.

Each year the Community Reads feature a program website with information on the selected title, the author, schedule of events, additional resources, and more.

One Book, One Irving

Irving's Community Read program is produced and promoted under the name "One Book, One Irving." In past years the program was produced with support from the National Endowment for the Arts in partnership with Arts Midwest under the name The Big Read.

Sponsorship Opportunities

If you are you interested in sponsoring Irving's Community Read, call (972) 721-3502 or email Library staff for more information about community, corporate, or media sponsorship opportunities.