About the Common Reading Experience at Bowling Green State University
How did the Common Reading Experience begin?
During spring semester 2001, the Director of First Year Experience hosted a round table discussion with faculty members from a variety of departments and members of the professional staff of student affairs. The purpose of the discussion was to identify ways to create experiences for incoming first year students that would build community, yet have an academic tone. One of the ideas that surfaced was a common read. It was initially envisioned as a way for students to get to know each other, regardless of their course of study or background. The book would be assigned for reading over summer and once students arrived, they would at least have the book as a common discussion point.
Who selects the books and how do people get involved?
The book is selected by committee. Faculty members from various disciplines, professional staff from student affairs, and students serve on the committee. Anyone is welcome to join the committee and may do so at any time by contacting Colleen Boff (372.7901). The selection process begins a year in advance. The committee typicaly meets monthly during fall semester when members begin reviewing books for the following fall semester selection. Monthly meetings continue during spring semester to plan for events and programs related to the selection. When possible, arrangements are made to bring the author to campus.
What are the objectives of the Common Reading Experience?
The goals of the Common Reading Experience are to
encourage students to read beyond textbooks.
create a foundation for students to explore values and ethics.
raise awareness and tolerance of intergenerational and cultural likenesses and differences.
promote academic discourse and critical thinking.
provide an introduction to the expectations of higher education.
create a sense of community by increasing student to student interaction and student to instructor interaction.
integrate an academic and social experience into the campus community.
What are the criteria used to select the common read each year?
The book selected each year for the Common Read, should
be about the human condition or human experience (whether the work is fiction or non-fiction)
be readable, engaging, and relevant to issues related to first year students.
be rich in content and themes that encourage the exploration of values.
have literary quality.
be contemporary (ideally no older than five years).
be interdisciplinary.
appeal to males and females.
be written by or about someone who is willing to make a campus visit.
have potential for strong programming opportunities.
Who should you contact if you have questions about the Common Reading Experience?
Colleen Boff, First Year Experience Librarian
Jerome Library, Department of Library Teaching and Learning
419.372.7901 cboff@bgnet.bgsu.edu
