Community to gather for ‘A Novel Idea’ 2026 book reveal at Downtown Bend Library
Lynsey Harris
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) – Book lovers across Central Oregon are invited to celebrate the big reveal of the 2026 A Novel Idea community read selections next month. The after-hours event takes place Saturday, December 6, at the Downtown Bend Library, where the next titles—one for adults and teens, and one for young readers—will be unveiled.
Doors open at 6 p.m., with the official reveal upstairs at 6:30 p.m. Guests can stick around for trivia, snacks, and a shared love of reading.
“We started with a list of about 30 titles, and narrowing it down to the top five was no easy task,” said Liz Goodrich, Programs Supervisor at Deschutes Public Library. “The chosen book really stood out to our group and it provides ample entry points for meaningful conversations between readers.”
Now in its 22nd year, A Novel Idea began in 2004 with one simple question: What would happen if everyone in Deschutes County read the same book? The answer—according to two decades of participation—is a stronger, more connected community.
The annual program includes both an adult and youth selection, with both authors visiting Central Oregon in the spring. Each year, the event is followed by a month of themed discussions and activities, culminating in free, in-person author visits.
“You might spot your neighbor or the person ahead of you at the post office with this year’s A Novel Idea book in their hand,” Goodrich added. “It’s all about engagement and the desire to connect with one another through a good story—and this year’s selection is a big one.”