What is The Big Read?

The Big Read is a nationwide program created by the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) in partnership with the Institute of Museum and Library Services and in cooperation with Arts Midwest. It is designed to revitalize the role of literary reading in American culture. The Big Read invites neighbors to read a single book of American literature in their communities, then come together for book discussion groups, panels, lectures, film screenings and other activities related to the book.

In 2009, the NEA awarded 269 grants across the county, one of which went to the Virginia Foundation Center for the Book to conduct The Big Read in Virginia. The Center, in Charlottesville, supplies NEA-produced educational and promotional materials such as Reader's Guides, Audio Guides, and Teacher’s Guides to participating localities in Virginia. The Big Read Roanoke Valley is part of The Big Read in Virginia.