Established in 1989, the Colorado Center for the Book promotes the value of reading and writing throughout the state by its promotion of literacy and celebration of the written word.  It was originally part of the Colorado Department of Education, and became an independent nonprofit organization in 1995. In 2001 it received the Library of Congress’ annual Daniel Boorstin Award as the best Center for the Book in the nation. Colorado Center for the Book and Colorado Humanities merged in 2004 to combine the organizations’ missions and efforts to help promote literature, and literacy-based programs statewide.

Library of Congress Center for the Book

The Library of Congress Center for the Book, which also administers the Poetry and Literature Center, promotes books and libraries, literacy and reading, poetry and literature, with programs including a diverse range of events, series, lectures, partnerships, prizes, contests and awards.

Starting in 1984, the Center for the Book in the Library began to establish affiliate centers in the 50 states. Today, there is a State Center for the Book in all 50 states, as well as the the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa and Northern Marianas. These Center for the Book affiliates carry out the national Center’s mission in their local areas, sponsor programs that highlight their area’s literary heritage and call attention to the importance of books, reading, literacy and libraries. Affiliates must submit an application to become part of — and retain — their Center for the Book status, which is renewable for a three-year period. The Center for the Book has established Guidelines for establishing affiliates and for programming activities. The State Centers meet regularly at the Library of Congress to share resources.