Working across the Commonwealth to unite communities of readers, writers, artists, and book lovers through year-round programs and partnership initiatives, the Center recognizes the enduring power of literature, and storytelling to engage in public dialogue and promote intercultural understanding.
The Virginia Center for the Book is a program of Virginia Humanities, and represents Virginia as the state affiliate of the National Library of Congress. We work within a network of state-wide and national affiliates to promote books, reading, and literacy, throughout Virginia.
Along with hosting the annual Virginia Festival of the Book each March, we produce literary programs and and education initiatives year-round. These initiatives include regional and national collaborations to support diverse reading, including the Library of Congress’s Great Reads program; resources for educators and librarians; and grant support for community projects throughout the Commonwealth.
We strive to reach all Virginians, through virtual programming (such as livestreamed author events; remote resources that are free for anyone with access to a computer, including discussion guides and recommended reading lists); and partnerships with libraries and nonprofits across the Commonwealth, which enable us to support local work that aligns with our mission.
Virginia Center for the Book Resources
Recommended Reading
With greater access to books than ever before, from print hardcovers to e-books and beyond, it can feel daunting to select your next read. It can also be difficult to read broadly and explore new work outside of your favorite genres. Our recommended reading initiatives highlight books, for adults as well as young readers, which we think will deepen your understanding of the world while also celebrating the literary culture of Virginia.
Grants
In addition to the Virginia Center for the Book’s work to reach Virginians directly, we partner with public libraries, schools, and other organizations across the Commonwealth to provide support for their work as it aligns with our mission.
The Virginia Festival of the Book
As the culmination of the Center’s mission and year-round work, the annual Festival brings together writers and readers of all levels and interests. With a longstanding focus on accessibility and diversity, the Festival’s programming engages attendees and viewers with new books, on a variety of topics and across genres, that are timely and necessary, and which we hope will prompt discourse, inspiration, and connection.
