The Big Read is an initiative of the National Endowment for the Arts, designed to restore reading to the center of American culture.  The Big Read brings together partners across the country to encourage reading for pleasure and enlightenment.

Here in Johnston County, The Big Read is a partnership between the Johnston County Arts Council and the Public Library of Johnston County and Smithfield.  The book that Johnston County will be reading during The Big Read will be To Kill a Mockingbird. The event will last one month and consist of many different community events, including: a kick-off event to launch the program locally, book discussions, keynote speakers, exhibits, film screenings, theatrical readings, and others.

The Big Read will rely on partners around the county to insure the program reaches every resident of Johnston County during the month of February 2009. Schools, churches, community centers, cultural centers, restaurants, retail stores, industries, local government, civic clubs, Chambers of Commerce, and the media – all will be asked to promote and help communicate the message of The Big Read.

This program is wide in its scope and there will be many opportunities for volunteers to help. Volunteer activities can include planning and assisting with special events and community programs, marketing, dispersing posters and reader’s guides, preparing books, filing, preparing mailings, data entry, and other duties as needed.  All ages, backgrounds, and experience are invited to help support The Big Read and the community in a meaningful way.  Volunteers can work as often or as little as their schedule or interest allows.

For more information about The Big Read and how you can get involved attend the first committee meeting, scheduled for Monday, July 21 at 6:00pm at the Public Library of Johnston County and Smithfield, 305 E. Market St., Downtown Smithfield.

Additional information about The Big Read or the Johnston County Arts Council can be obtained by calling 919-553-1930 or emailing info@johnstoncountyarts.org.