Book-To-Action

The California State Library and the California Center for the Book are collaborating on an exciting new program model called Book-to-Action. Book-to-Action builds on the traditional book club concept, but in addition to providing an opportunity to collectively read and discuss a book, Book-to-Action enables readers to put their new-found knowledge into action by engaging in a community service project related to the book's topic.

To learn more about the first Book-to-Action program in California, watch "From Book to Action: One Library's Story" a 4-minute video about the program Sally Thomas launched at the Hayward Public Library in 2011 based on Novella Carpenter's book, Farm City.

In 2012, ten California libraries received small LSTA grants to implement their own Book-to-Action programs – all with great success. See a list of these funded libraries, their selected books, community service partners and, in some cases, project videos.

BOOK-TO-ACTION TOOLKIT
We have developed an online toolkit that provides tips and guidelines for librarians and community partners interested in organizing their own Book-to-Action programs. The toolkit includes a recommended list of book titles well-suited for civic engagement activities as well as a list of potential community partners.

Two versions of the TOOLKIT are available: High-resolution (11MB), Low-resolution (2MB)

For more information about Book-to-Action, please contact Suzanne Flint at Suzanne.Flint@library.ca.gov or Mary Menzel at mmenzel@calbook.org.