I Read Canadian is a special promotional program for the library as Canada marks 153 years this month as a nation.

The goal of the I Read Canadian project is to promote awareness of Canadian books and authors “and to celebrate the excellence of Canadian literature” according to the program mandate. Library staff encourage readers to borrow books by Canadian writers, both French and English, during July and talk about the books they read with their friends, family, and neighbours.

The I Read Canadian project applies to Canadian writers for all demographics, whether children’s books, youth adult literature, mainstream or genres that range from mystery to science fiction. The library website has some suggestions for reading in its Book Buzz section.

Everyone who checks out a book by a Canadian writer has a chance to win an I Read Canadian T-shirt, cap, and pair of sunglasses. The winner’s name will be drawn July 31.