Brought to you by The Center for the Book in the Library of Congress
Books & Related Info for
The Center for the Book in the Library of Congress invites people of all ages to discover the fascinating people, places and events that await you whenever you read.
Read Around the States
Listen to members of Congress reading from their favorite books for young people in “Read Around the States.” Each video includes an interview with the author, in association with a Library of Congress Center for the Book Affiliate.
Watch the videos
National Ambassador for Young People's Literature
The position of National Ambassador for Young People's Literature was established in 2008 to raise national awareness of the importance of young people's literature as it relates to lifelong literacy, education, and the development and betterment of the lives of young people. Meet the current ambassador
Library of Congress Literacy Awards
Through the generosity of David M. Rubenstein, the Library of Congress Literacy Awards recognize and support organizations that have made outstanding contributions to increasing literacy in the United States or abroad. The Literacy Awards program encourages the continuing development of innovative methods and is intended to draw public attention to the importance of literacy. The program was established in 2013 and is administered by the Library’s Center for Learning, Literacy and Engagement.
Discover Great Places Through Reading
Every year, a list of books representing the literary heritage of the 50 states, the District of Columbia and the U.S. Virgin Islands is distributed by the Library of Congress's Center for the Book during the National Book Festival. Each book is selected by a Center for the Book state affiliate or state library and most are for children and young readers. Books may be written by authors from the state, take place in the state, or celebrate the state’s culture and heritage. Discover great reads with our interactive map of the book list or view the original brochures and printable book lists.
View interactive map
American Conversations: Celebrating Poems in Rural Communities
“American Conversations: Celebrating Poems in Rural Communities” was 22nd U.S. Poet Laureate Tracy K. Smith’s second-year project. Throughout 2018, she traveled to rural communities around the country to engage Americans in conversations about poetry. Revisit Tracy K. Smith’s conversations, experiences, and reflections from the road.
Read more
The Technicolor Adventures of Catalina Neon
“The Technicolor Adventures of Catalina Neon” is a bilingual, illustrated poem created by U.S. Poet Laureate Juan Felipe Herrera and artist Juana Medina. This poem, created during Herrera's 2016-17 term, features contributions by second and third grade students and their elementary school librarians from across the country who participated to help tell Catalina Neon's story.
Read more
Festivals
The National Book Festival is the Library's annual celebration of books and reading. Authors from across the country entertain participants with insights into their work.
Books Online and Suggested Reading Lists
Throughout Read.gov, you will find classic books for readers of all ages that have been digitized for online reading, as well as lists of suggested titles that may be obtained at your local library.
Braille Literacy
The National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled makes it possible for Americans living with visual impairment to enjoy a good book, magazine and even music scores. Read More
Books That Shaped the World
After opening the conversation on the books that shaped America, we're developing a new list of great books that have affected the world throughout history. You can help us choose the books that will go on that list by taking a short survey.
Take the survey (external link)
Author Webcasts
John Grisham at National Book Festival
