Morris County Launches “Read Across Morris County 250”
Published on February 17, 2026
Initiative Encourages Residents of All Ages To Explore America’s Founding
Morris County is proud to announce the launch of “Read Across Morris County 250,” a countywide reading initiative that celebrates the 250th Anniversary of the United States.
The program will bring residents of all ages together, through shared reading experiences, to reflect upon and spark meaningful discussions about the founding of America.
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, who are inviting families, classrooms, libraries, book clubs and community organizations to participate in this multi-generational reading experience.
“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,” said Commissioner Myers. “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.”
The curated reading list introduces the Revolutionary era in age-appropriate ways while humanizing the period in which the American colonies struggled to break free of British rule. With selections appropriate for young readers, as well as adults, the initiative encourages participation by entire households, schools, and community groups—allowing everyone to explore multiple perspectives on America’s early history while sharing a common experience.
“The study of history is not confined to the classroom,” said Dr. Iacono. “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 throughout Morris County will provide residents access to selected titles and support community-wide participation.
“Libraries serve every age, every background and every stage of learning,” said Darren O’Neill, director of library services at 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.”
“Read Across Morris County 250 is about bringing people together through shared stories and shared history,” said Sarah Neibart, chair of the Morris County 250th Anniversary Committee. “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.”
2026 Reading Selections Include:
Elementary (Grades K–3)
- Dolly Madison Saves George Washington — Don Brown
- George Washington’s Teeth — Deborah Chandra & Madeleine Comora
- Liberty’s Kids: The Story of the Boston Tea Party — Scholastic adaptation
Upper Elementary/Middle School (Grades 4–6)
- George vs. George — Rosalyn Schanzer
- The Notorious Benedict Arnold — Steve Sheinkin
- Spy on History: Revolutionary War — Enigma Editions
Middle School/Young Adult (Grades 7–9)
- Chains — Laurie Halse Anderson
- Forge — Laurie Halse Anderson
- My Brother Sam Is Dead — James Lincoln Collier and Christopher Collier
A full reading list is available on the Morris County Library website.
Additional programming and participation details will be announced in the coming months.
For more information about Morris County’s 250th Anniversary events and programs, visit: morriscounty250.com and follow @MorrisCounty250 on social media.
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Image: Read Across Morris County 250 icon.