After 24 years of bringing the community together through shared reading, Pasadena Public Library will unveil its 2026 One City, One Story book selection during a virtual event Dec. 8 at 4 p.m.
The annual program, now entering its 24th year, aims to foster dialogue and connection across Pasadena’s diverse population by selecting a single title for citywide reading. The library has published 15 nominee titles in advance of the December reveal.
A 19-member committee of community volunteers, led by Senior Librarian Christine Reeder, selects each year’s title. The program creates a common reference point that enables conversations across demographic, socioeconomic, and educational boundaries.
The 2025 selection was “James” by Percival Everett, a reimagining of “Huckleberry Finn” told from Jim’s enslaved perspective. Everett appeared in Pasadena in March for a One City, One Story event at Pasadena Presbyterian Church.
The program continues with related events beginning in March 2026.
The initiative demonstrates how literature can serve as a mechanism for surfacing untold narratives and diverse viewpoints within a community, functioning as both cultural programming and civic infrastructure.
One City, One Story 2026 Selection Reveal will run on Monday, Dec. 8 at 4 p.m. Virtual event. For more information, call (626) 744-7076 or visit https://www.cityofpasadena.net/library/?trumbaEmbed=view%3Devent%26eventid%3D191326062. Admission: Free.
