The Big Read will take place from Sept. 16  to Oct. 15.

The reading selection this year will be Bless Me, Ultima by Rudolfo Anaya. The Knox County Public Library joins forces with the Young Women's Christian Association in order to introduce this powerful book to the public.

The Big Read brings people together from all different areas within the community. Carol Swaggerty, branch manager of the Powell library IT will kick off at Market Square Sept. 16 at noon. There will be a variety of entertainment, including a visit from Mayor Bill Haslam and a dance performance by the Knoxville Argentine Tango Society and Mexican Folkloric Grupo, Santa Cruz. Also, several free copies of Bless Me, Ultima will be given out.

"The Big Read brings people together from all different areas within the community," Carol Swaggerty, branch manager of the Powell library, said. "Since it's going on all across the country, the program promotes literacy, a better understanding of Hispanic culture, and bilingualism."

The Big Read is an event that typically celebrates women, though everyone is encouraged to join in the festivities. Discussion groups will be readily available through the library to anyone who is interested.

Though similar projects have been going on for years, this is only the third year of The Big Read, and the Knox County Public Library has been involved from the beginning.