Dubuque County Reads
Dubuque County Reads (DCR) promotes literacy, fosters civic engagement, and encourages respectful dialogue on timely social issues. Each year, DCR selects a book and companion youth title to spark county-wide conversations. Core activities include distributing free books, hosting book discussions, and partnering with local organizations to offer events that reflect the book’s themes. All programming is free and open to the public.
Dubuque County Reads 2026 brought over 1800 people together across Dubuque County to read, discuss, and experience stories centered on Indigenous identity, sustainability, and our shared relationship to land and water. Through free book distribution, inclusive programming, and deep community partnerships, Dubuque County Reads demonstrated the power of libraries and cultural organizations to foster meaningful dialogue and lifelong learning.
The 2027 DCR theme is Arts and Culture and features All the Beauty in the World: The Metropolitan Museum of Art and Me by Patrick Bringley. Youth programing is centered on Cat Nap by Brian Lies.
2027 programming will run from February 1st, 2027 to April 15th, 2027.
If you are interested in being part of the 2027 program, please contact us: dcr@dalinc.org.
Adult Programming
Each year, we select a thought-provoking book to spark dialogue on topics that matter. Connect with others at book discussions, author talks, and special events designed to inspire lifelong learning and community engagement.
2027 programming is based on the Arts and Culture theme and will feature the book All the Beauty in the World: The Metropolitan Museum of Art and Me by Patrick Bringley.
Youth
Programming
Children and families can explore each year’s featured book through hands-on activities, storytimes, and creative projects. Our goal is to nurture a love of reading while building connections across the community—because big ideas start with little readers.
2026 programming was inspired by Berry Song by Michaela Goade.
2027 programming is based on the Arts and Culture them and will feature the book Cat Nap by Brian Lies.
Featured
Events
Celebrate reading together at collaborative events at Dubuque area institutions. The 2026 DCR program included events at the Dubuque Museum of Art and the National Mississippi River Museum!
Enjoy interactive activities, art projects, and hands-on exhibits inspired by this year’s featured book. Featured events are designed for all ages.
DALINC MEMBER Institutions
