About the Program

Boston University’s Common Read program was launched in fall 2025, with the goal of creating a unifying experience and furnishing a new tradition for the University. A University-wide reading program helps build connection, encourage conversation, and develop friendship among community members, especially our students. We hope the BU Common Read serves as an opportunity for the entire Terrier community of students, faculty, staff, and alumni to engage with a compelling title, whether here in Boston or beyond.

How We Choose a Book

The Common Read aims to select a book that will resonate with the whole University, and we’re especially grateful for the leadership of BU Libraries in guiding the book selection. A team from BU Libraries reviews books from a list of suggested titles, each member reading several books. Their group then meets for weeks to discuss their thoughts about the suggested titles and the various advantages and disadvantages of each selection. After careful review, they submit a final book recommendation to University leadership for approval.

Learn More

Please contact us if you have additional questions about the program or this year’s selection.