Morris County launches “Read Across Morris County 250” to mark nation’s semiquincentennial
MORRIS COUNTY, N.J. — Morris County has launched “Read Across Morris County 250,” a countywide reading initiative commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States and encouraging residents of all ages to explore the nation’s founding.
The program aims to bring families, students, libraries, book clubs and community organizations together through shared reading experiences designed to spark discussion about the Revolutionary era and America’s founding principles.
The initiative is being led by the Morris County 250th Anniversary Committee, Morris County Commissioner Christine Myers and County College of Morris President Dr. Anthony Iacono.
“As we celebrate the 250th anniversary, we honor the generations who endured unimaginable hardships and made tremendous sacrifices to secure the freedoms we enjoy today,” Myers said. “Read Across Morris County 250 offers residents of all ages the chance to reflect on our ancestors’ courage, remember the true cost of liberty, and engage with the values and principles that built our nation and continue to shape our communities and our history.”
Organizers said the curated reading list introduces the Revolutionary era in age-appropriate ways, encouraging participation across generations and households while highlighting multiple perspectives on early American history.
“The study of history is not confined to the classroom,” Iacono said. “Read Across Morris County 250 reinforces the importance of lifelong learning by inviting the entire community to engage with America’s founding story, examine multiple perspectives and better understand the values that continue to shape our society.”
Libraries across Morris County will provide access to selected titles and support communitywide participation.
“Libraries serve every age, every background and every stage of learning,” said Darren O’Neill, director of library services at the Morris County Library. “Read Across Morris County 250 invites the entire community — children, students, families and seniors — to engage with America’s founding story together, and we’re proud to help facilitate those conversations across Morris County.”
Sarah Neibart, chair of the Morris County 250th Anniversary Committee, said the initiative is designed to create opportunities for dialogue and connection.
“Read Across Morris County 250 is about bringing people together through shared stories and shared history,” Neibart said. “By engaging readers of all ages, we are creating opportunities for meaningful conversation, learning and connection as we commemorate this important milestone in our nation’s history.”
The 2026 reading selections include titles for students in kindergarten through high school, such as “Dolly Madison Saves George Washington” by Don Brown; “George vs. George” by Rosalyn Schanzer; and “Chains” by Laurie Halse Anderson.
A full reading list is available on the Morris County Library website. Additional programming and participation details are expected in the coming months.
For more information about Morris County’s 250th anniversary events and programs, visit morriscounty250.com.
