Online for all: A case study of an online common reading program at a public university

ABSTRACT

Common read programs are a popular way for organizations to bring their community together. Through thoughtful book selection and event design, common read programs can facilitate camaraderie and discussion around a book's story and themes. This paper describes how the common read program at California State University, Los Angeles shifted from an in-person to a fully online program during the COVID-19 pandemic (academic year 2020-2021). The authors suggest that an online common read program offers unique benefits and can be as engaging as an in-person program when it is informed by the interests and needs of students and other community members. Common reads, book selection, event planning, and lessons learned are examined.