Let’s Talk About It Resources

Discussion Programming Guides

Developed to aid participants in "The Millennium Project for Public Libraries," this how-to (PDF) provides basic information about developing and promoting book discussion programs.

When planning a "Let's Talk About It" program, you may wish to consult the Planner's Manual for general how-to information about program format, selecting a scholar, promoting your series, evaluation, and more.

Other "Let's Talk About It" Programs

• Idaho
  The Idaho Commission for Libraries provides information and resources concerning "Let's Talk About It" programs for librarians, program scholars, and readers. Funding for public libraries in Idaho is available.

• Indiana
  Since 1987, Middlebury Community Public Library has been hosting the longest running "Let's Talk About It" series in Indiana. A calendar of their current series with program scholars and books is provided.

• Maine
  The Maine Humanities Council loans the books, identifies the scholar, provides publicity materials, and offers advice on organizing and publicizing "Let's Talk About It" programs to any library or nonprofit organization in Maine.

• North Carolina
  This is a joint project of the North Carolina Center for the Book and the North Carolina Humanities Council. Series themes include North Carolina literature and folklore, mysteries, regional literature, women's autobiography, the Civil War, religion, romantic love, and more. Humanities scholar-speakers can be scheduled and books may be reserved for public libraries in North Carolina. Contact information is provided.

• Oklahoma
  The Oklahoma Humanities Council provides assistance in planning a series as well as discussion training to any library or nonprofit organization in Oklahoma. Discussion themes explore topics such as the history and lore of Route 66, crime fiction, the ethnic diversity of America, and much more. Funding for honoraria for program scholars and travel is available through a special mini-grant application to the Oklahoma Humanities Council.

• South Carolina
  The Humanities Council of South Carolina offers "Let's Talk About It" themes ranging from women's autobiography to the importance of heritage in South Carolina literature. The council provides publicity tools, scholar lists, and general advice and grant opportunities.

Additional Programs

Recommendations for additional listings of "Let's Talk About It" programs should be emailed to Angela Hanshaw, Program Officer/Web Editor, ALA Public Programs Office.

State Humanities Councils

The fifty-six state humanities councils located in United States and its territories support local humanities programs and events. The state humanities councils are funded in part by the federal government through the National Endowment for the Humanities. Libraries interested in obtaining possible grant support for "Let's Talk About It" programs should contact their local state humanities council.

Center for the Book in the Library of Congress

The Center for the Book was established in 1977 to use the resources and prestige of the Library of Congress to promote books, reading, libraries, and literacy. Within the library, the center is a focal point for celebrating the legacy of books and the printed word. Outside the library, the center works closely with other organizations to foster understanding of the vital role of books, reading, libraries, and literacy in society.

State Center Affiliates of the Center for the Book

Since 1984, fifty states and the District of Columbia have established statewide book centers that are affiliated with the Center for the Book in the Library of Congress.

Testimonials from Hosting Libraries

Excerpts from testimonial letters from a wide variety of libraries and communities.