
One City. One book. Different Minds.
Each year, we feature an important book through our annual Peoria Reads! one city, one book project. Since 2021 is the 20th year we are presenting Peoria Reads!, we have chosen a book particularly near and dear to our hearts — The Library Book by Susan Orlean.
In The Library Book, Orlean chronicles the 1986 suspicious and destructive fire at the Los Angeles Public Library, as well as its aftermath, to highlight the crucial role libraries play in our personal lives and our communities. From the humble beginnings of libraries to their current status as a cornerstone of national identity, Orlean brings libraries – even the charred remains of one – to life. Part history. Part mystery. All heart.
As we encourage our community to read and discuss this book – kicking off this year’s Peoria Reads during National Library Week (April 4-10) — we hope to increase awareness of the importance of libraries, in good times and bad. COVID has changed so much of life, including how you use your local library. We hope to use this year to remind you of all we have to offer.
Peoria Public Library has been educating and entertaining you since 1855.
Find Peoria Reads! programs by searching the event calendar to the right.
COMING SOON:
Peoria Reads!: Library Literary Trivia
Wednesday, April 21 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Free Zoom presentation
Join us live on Zoom for a game of literary trivia. Test your knowledge of all things literary –books, authors, and of course, libraries! Our winner will receive a gift card to a local restaurant. This event is hosted by Howes Party Games — two sisters offering virtual programming in the form of entertaining games for all ages. Join the Zoom meeting here: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86427177907…
If you enjoyed The Library Book, the titles below are presented as companion books. We’ve included something for all ages! Just click on the arrows to scroll.
PPL’s Reading Room
Keep up to speed on all the latest news from the Peoria Public Library!
PPL Blog
In the News
Book Clubs
The Lakeview Ledger
In the Loop Library Newsletter
Goals of Peoria Reads!
Peoria Reads! is led by Peoria Public Library with the help of community partners, Methodist College, Bradley University and Neighborhood House.
• Bring our diverse community together in ways to promote better understanding.
• Broaden and deepen readers’ appreciation for books dealing with significant issues.
• Bring more people into libraries, bookstores, and literacy institutions
• Increase opportunities for discussion between youth and adults
• Achieve a better understanding of ourselves and of our own humanity.