Montgomery County Public Libraries (MCPL) is partnering with the Sandy Spring Museum for the 2024-25 National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) “Big Read.” This year's program will explore the themes of community, history and identity through a variety of public programming and exhibits designed to engage and inspire. The program will kick off with a reception at the Sandy Spring Museum from 7-8 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 20, and will continue for 10 months with a series of events across the County.
The Big Read program works with Arts Midwest to inspire meaningful conversations, celebrate local creativity, elevate a wide variety of voices and build stronger connections in each community. This year, the initiative will delve into these themes through the lens of Yaa Gyasi's acclaimed novel, Homegoing.
Programming will highlight regional Black history and celebrate the contributions of Black and POC (people of color) artists. Residents can look forward to an enriching lineup of workshops, speaker events and discussion groups. The activities will take place at various MCPL branches, the Sandy Spring Museum and the Olive Branch Community Church, which is located at 416 Olney Sandy Spring Rd., in Sandy Spring.
“Montgomery County is honored to partner with the Sandy Spring Museum, MoCo Underground Writers Showcase and Olive Branch Community Church for the 2024-25 NEA Big Read,” said Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich. “This initiative is a testament to our commitment to celebrating and exploring our diverse histories and cultures. Through the lens of Yaa Gyasi’s Homegoing, we aim to engage our community in meaningful dialogue and reflection about our past and its impact on our present. I encourage everyone to participate in this exciting journey of discovery and learning.”
One of the key events will be “JOURNEY(S): A Screening and Discussion with Saaret E. Yoseph,” on Saturday, Feb. 22, at the Gaithersburg Library. The event will provide an opportunity to engage with the themes of the book in a thoughtful and interactive setting.
The opening event on Sept. 20 will feature a talk by acclaimed Underground Railroad historian Anthony Cohen. It also will provide a chance to meet partners in the program and artists who will be hosting programs. Attendees also will receive a free copy of Homegoing! For more information and to register, click here.
For more details on events, award information, and to stay updated on the program, visit the Sandy Spring Museum website.
