San Mateo County, CA — The San Mateo County Office of Education, Peninsula Library System, and libraries across the county have launched San Mateo County Reads 2022. San Mateo County Reads is a countywide initiative that fosters community and discussion through literacy. Formerly known as One Book One County, the program invites students, families, educators, and community members to read from a slate of books under a common theme to promote conversations, create connections, foster understanding, and expand interest in reading.
The theme this year is “Native Authors-Native Lives.” To correct the stories and practices that have often erased indigenous people’s history and culture, the San Mateo County Reads team of educators and librarians selected this year’s slate of books to help lift the stories of indigenous voices. This year’s selections are:
- Grades TK–3: We Are Water Protectors by Carole Lindstrom and Michaela Goade, and Jingle Dancer by Cynthia Leitich Smith, Ying-Hwa Hu, and Cornelius Van Wright
- Grades 4–8: Rez Dogs by Joseph Bruchac
- Grades 9–12: Firekeeper’s Daughter by Angeline Boulley.
- Adults: There There, by Tommy Orange
“Let’s connect as a community by reading and talking to one another,” said San Mateo County Superintendent of Schools (and former school librarian) Nancy Magee. “Engaging in discussion about what we are reading enhances understanding and meaning, with all of us reaping the rewards. I want to express a giant thank you to our library and school partners for participating in this important and fun celebration of reading.”
To support school districts in participating in San Mateo County Reads, the County Office of Education and its library partners have provided schools with additional print and digital copies of each book for students, staff, and community members. The County Office of Education encourages districts to engage their school communities through staff reading groups, student projects, school events, and other related activities. Peninsula Library System Librarians are hosting Author Visits on Monday, November 14 through Wednesday, November 16, to introduce students to these amazing authors. Parents, educators, and students from across San Mateo County are welcome to attend these free events.
Since its inception in 2019, San Mateo County Reads has focused on raising voices that need to be heard. The initiative began in 2019 with one book, March: Book One, a graphic novel by Congressman John Lewis, Andrew Aydin, and Nate Powell that details Congressman Lewis’ struggle for civil and human rights. Over the years, the SMC Reads initiative has expanded, with grade-specific selections for students and an adult selection chosen each year.
A list of all upcoming events, as well as educator resources and Author Visit details and registration link can be found on the San Mateo County Reads website.
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The San Mateo County Office of Education is committed to ensuring excellence and equity in education by inspiring students, investing in teachers, invigorating leaders, and involving communities.
November 2, 2022