Tacoma Reads invites the community to read, learn, and engage with the concept of “citizenship” this fall through books and programs for all ages
Headline event features author Daisy Hernández in conversation with Mayor Ibsen at University of Washington Tacoma on October 1
Venue sponsor: UW Tacoma Library
Community partners: King’s Books, Tacoma Community House
TACOMA, WASH.— Tacoma’s city-wide literary programming series for all ages presented by the City of Tacoma Mayor’s Office and Tacoma Public Library returns in 2026 with three titles for readers of all ages along with programs that invite our community into conversation.
For Tacoma Reads 2026, Mayor Ibsen selected books about immigration and citizenship:
- For adult readers: “Citizenship: Notes on an American Myth” by Daisy Hernández
“Square in the middle of the current administration's campaign of fear unleashed on immigrant and marginalized, especially BIPOC, residents, award-winning writer and journalist Hernández courageously delves into the concept of citizenship in this personal, profound, engaging, and comprehensive study.” –Booklist
- For young adult readers: “My Family Divided: One Girl’s Journey of Home, Loss, and Hope” by Diana Guerrero
"The star of ‘Orange Is the New Black’ and ‘Jane the Virgin,’ Diane Guerrero presents her personal story in this middle grade memoir about her parents' deportation and the nightmarish struggles of undocumented immigrants and their American children." – Publisher’s description
- For children and families: “Some of Us: A Story of Citizenship and the United States” by Rajani Larocca
“Equal parts emotional and informative, here is a worthy picture book about citizenship and naturalization. This thoughtfully crafted text precisely breaks down the process by which new residents apply for and acquire US citizenship." - Publisher’s description
Tacoma Public Library offers Tacoma Reads book clubs, programs, and events this fall for readers of all ages.
“We are honored to partner with Mayor Ibsen, King’s Books, Tacoma Community House, and UW Tacoma Library to host literary programs that invite conversation and continued learning about contemporary topics,” said Library Director Amita Lonial. “The topics of immigration and citizenship are more relevant than ever, and our book selections and programs for all ages invite broad engagement and discussion,” continued Lonial.
Tacoma Reads 2026’s headline event takes place on Thursday, Oct. 1, when Mayor Ibsen will host author Daisy Hernández for a reading and conversation at William W. Philips Hall at UW Tacoma. This free community event will feature a Q&A and book signing. Advance registration is encouraged.
“Immigrants literally built Tacoma. Regardless of the chaos and terror coming from the current administration, we as Tacomans are united by our common commitment to each other. I am looking forward to a thoughtful discussion with author Daisy Hernández,” said Mayor Anders Ibsen. “Incidentally, it’s also a great read!” said Ibsen.
Tacoma Reads titles are available for purchase through King’s Books. Library card holders can check out the titles in multiple formats (book, eBook, audiobook) from Tacoma Public Library.
Author visit and programs:
- Thursday, Oct. 1 at 6 p.m.: Tacoma Reads: Author Daisy Hernández in conversation with Mayor Ibsen at William W. Philip Hall, University of Washington Tacoma. Registration is now open.
- Find more information on all Tacoma Reads programs at tacomalibrary.org/tacomareads.
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About Tacoma Public Library:
Tacoma Public Library's mission is to empower its community by bringing people together to discover, connect, create, learn, and thrive. Learn more at tacomalibrary.org.
Media contact:
Mariesa Bus, Public Information Officer | mbus@tacomalibrary.org | 253.280.2882