Indian Trails Public Library in Wheeling gets $11,200 grant to host 'The Big Read'

A good book has the power to build community.

That's the crux of an $11,200 grant awarded to Indian Trails Public Library District in Wheeling.

The funding will allow Indian Trail to host The Big Read, a campaign by the National Endowment for the Arts to not only curl up with a good book, but also get neighbors talking about themes like, in the library's case, family, immigration and identity, according to a news release.

Indian Trails has selected "Into the Beautiful North" by Luís Alberto Urrea for its version of The Big Read, which will include a visit by the author and a culinary tasting at Rolling Meadows High School.

"It's a great opportunity for our community to read the same book and then share conversations and activities on themes of culture and identity," Adult Services Manager Christina Stoll said. "'Into the Beautiful North' is a perfect selection for our diverse community with citizens from all walks of life who have their own stories and dreams for their families."

Participants can start checking out the book Saturday, July 18, at the library, 355 Schoenbeck Road, Wheeling. A kickoff event will be held in September. For details, visit indiantrailslibrary.org.