Our Mission & 2024 Season Theme
Stoneham Reads seeks to build bridges by promoting reading, critical thinking and community connection. As we join in reading and talking and learning together, we feel we can make Stoneham a better place for all to live. Learn more on our Stoneham Reads home page.
This year, we proudly announce a theme that celebrates diversity, inclusivity, and the rich tapestry of LGBTQ+ literature
Embracing Diversity:
Celebrating LGBTQ+ Literature and Community
The Stoneham Reads program has been bringing residents together for the past three years through the shared experience of reading and discussing a carefully selected book. However, this year holds special significance as we shine a spotlight on LGBTQ+ voices and narratives, acknowledging their invaluable contributions to literature and society as a whole.
At its core, this program serves as a platform to foster understanding, empathy, and dialogue within our town. By delving into LGBTQ+ literature, we aim to spark meaningful conversations about identity, love, acceptance, and the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals. Through the power of storytelling, we hope to bridge divides, dispel stereotypes, and cultivate a more inclusive and compassionate community for all.
This year we’ll be releasing a selection of recommended books (coming soon!) in different genres and for different age groups. We will also be hosting events and activities tailored to celebrate LGBTQ+ culture and experience.
Embracing LGBTQ+ literature is not only a celebration of literary excellence but also a reaffirmation of our town's values of respect, tolerance, and openness. By participating in this program, residents have the opportunity to stand in solidarity with LGBTQ+ individuals, affirming their right to be seen, heard, and valued.
Let's come together to celebrate the beauty of diversity and the power of literature to inspire, educate, and unite us. Together, we can create a more inclusive and welcoming community where everyone feels seen, accepted, and celebrated for who they are.
At its core, this program serves as a platform to foster understanding, empathy, and dialogue within our town. By delving into LGBTQ+ literature, we aim to spark meaningful conversations about identity, love, acceptance, and the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals. Through the power of storytelling, we hope to bridge divides, dispel stereotypes, and cultivate a more inclusive and compassionate community for all.
This year we’ll be releasing a selection of recommended books (coming soon!) in different genres and for different age groups. We will also be hosting events and activities tailored to celebrate LGBTQ+ culture and experience.
Embracing LGBTQ+ literature is not only a celebration of literary excellence but also a reaffirmation of our town's values of respect, tolerance, and openness. By participating in this program, residents have the opportunity to stand in solidarity with LGBTQ+ individuals, affirming their right to be seen, heard, and valued.
Let's come together to celebrate the beauty of diversity and the power of literature to inspire, educate, and unite us. Together, we can create a more inclusive and welcoming community where everyone feels seen, accepted, and celebrated for who they are.
What is Stoneham Reads?
Stoneham Reads is a community-building project in Stoneham, MA. All are invited to read books on the topic and participate in related activities to foster connections, promote an appreciation of our town, and have fun. Stoneham Reads seeks to build bridges by promoting reading, critical thinking and community connection. As we join in reading and talking and learning together, we feel we can make Stoneham a better place for all to live.
The Stoneham Reads project is a collaboration among town residents and community groups, sponsored by the Stoneham Community Development Corporation, and many other local organizations and businesses. See the full list here.
The first season for Stoneham Reads launched with a book focused on racial history and social justice: Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You by Ibram X. Kendi and Jason Reynolds. Our second season was focused on the national bestseller Americanah by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. In our third season, we read and explored the themes in Hey, Kiddo, by Jaret Kiosk
The Stoneham Reads project is a collaboration among town residents and community groups, sponsored by the Stoneham Community Development Corporation, and many other local organizations and businesses. See the full list here.
The first season for Stoneham Reads launched with a book focused on racial history and social justice: Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You by Ibram X. Kendi and Jason Reynolds. Our second season was focused on the national bestseller Americanah by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. In our third season, we read and explored the themes in Hey, Kiddo, by Jaret Kiosk
- What: Read some books along with your community!
- Pick up: Books, e-books, and audiobooks available at Stoneham Public Library and local indie bookstore The Book Oasis
- Who’s invited: All Stoneham and surrounding town residents are welcome
- Ways to engage:
- Attend events
- May 9th, 6-8: Silent Book Group at the Stoneham Public Library
- June 9th, time, location and event TBD
- Select Summer Farmer’s Markets
- Sept 22-28: Banned Books Week Read-In
- Stay tuned for more
- Access our social media pages Facebook and Instagram to find out more and engage in community discussion
- Attend events
All are welcome!
Stoneham Reads invites Stoneham and surrounding town residents to read any of the recommended books with us, considering its themes and messages, and engaging in community discussions.
Stoneham Reads invites Stoneham and surrounding town residents to read any of the recommended books with us, considering its themes and messages, and engaging in community discussions.
We're looking for volunteers
Join our team of dedicated community members. Email us at [email protected] and put "Volunteer Interest" in the subject line.
Make a tax-deductible contribution to the program by clicking on the button below.
Community Sponsors
Stoneham Reads is made possible by generous donations of local foundations, nonprofit organizations, businesses, community groups, and individuals. See our full list of Sponsors and Partners here.
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Stoneham Reads is supported in part by a grant from the Stoneham Cultural Council, a local agency, which is supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency.
Ways to Partner with Stoneham Reads
- Publicize events through your networks.
- Serve as a facilitator of a book discussion.
- Help plan or host companion events for the community related to the book’s theme.
- Become a sponsor. Contact [email protected] for more information about sponsorship; please put "SR SPONSORSHIP" in the subject line.
- Make a donation.
- For general information, contact us at [email protected]; please indicate your interest in the subject line.