Baltimore has struggled with violence. One Book Baltimore has created a much needed forum for students and families to discuss the impact of crime and their hopes for peace while providing an opportunity to enrich literacy. Selected books have included Nic Stone’s Dear Martin (2018), Jason Reynolds’ Long Way Down (2019) and this year D. Watkins’ We Speak for Ourselves. Discussions and programming are held across the city sparking conversations focused on peace and how to promote change in our community.

• Library brings important partners in the arts, education, community and literacy together through One Book Baltimore to work with Baltimore’s youth and to connect and inspire them.
• Free copies of books provided to the community through Sidewalk Service locations; discussion guide available for all through the library’s website.
• Expanded access to blind and deaf students (2019) and virtual launch and library programs for the community (2020).
• Virtual author visits.

Students reported the book was relevant to their experiences and want to have more programs where they can discuss difficult issues and share their stories. In a new component to the program, the One Book Baltimore Showcase, 50 students participated with featured written pieces, spoken word performances and skits. A parent who attended the showcase had lost a child to gun violence found the book and showcase cathartic. This year, we hope to have more participation in the virtual showcase. Our local CBS station and Fox station covered this story.