Let's Talk About It. Book Discussion series at your local library.

Let’s Talk About It (LTAI)

About LTAI

Since 1985, Let’s Talk About It (LTAI) has been bringing adult reading discussion groups together with humanities scholars in Idaho’s public libraries to discuss literature. These book readings and discussions explore American values, history, culture, aging, classics, and much more. The presentation by, and interaction with, a program scholar is what sets these sessions apart from traditional book club discussions. For more information on how the program works, please visit the project summary page, or contact LeAnn Gelskey (info at bottom of this page).

LTAI 2025-26 Schedule (PDF) (PDF prints on 8.5 x 14 paper). The season schedule may change so please contact your local library directly for the most up-to-date information about their program.

Below is an “at a glance” list of the libraries participating in LTAI in 2025-26. Please see the complete season schedule above for contact information, themes, book titles, and other details.

Session Schedule will be posted at the end of August.

Applications for the 2025/2026 sessions will open July 1, 2025

The application has been significantly streamlined and can now be completed and submitted online (link below). Additionally, libraries will not be required to select specific book titles or propose their program schedule as part of the application. These logistics will be worked out with libraries once/if they are selected to participate. A draft list of book titles can be found on our themes and books page and may assist libraries in deciding which theme(s) to request.

  • Deadline – The application must be submitted by 5pm on Thursday, July 18.
  • Eligibility – Any public library or branch is welcome to apply. Limited to one application per library district. Multi-branch libraries should coordinate their application. The ICfL used to require match fees for participating libraries. However, this is no longer required.
  • Selection Criteria – The ICfL will select up to 18 libraries to participate in the program. We will consider several factors when reviewing library applications, including whether and when the library last participated in LTAI, ensuring regional representation for the state, the strength of the library’s application, and the availability of the library’s preferred themes.
  • What happens next – The ICfL will review applications and determine which libraries to accept for the program in 2024. Libraries will receive notification about their application by July 31st. See the timeline below under “Planning Information” for an anticipated timeline of next steps.

Planning Information

The following information is provided to help libraries plan for and implement their LTAI programs:

  • Program Scope – We will select 18 public libraries to participate in the 2025/2026 session, and each library will be expected to host three LTAI discussions.
  • Anticipated Timeline:
    • July 3 – July 18 – Application is open.
    • July 31 – Anticipated date for library selection and notification
    • Late July to August 21 – The ICfL will work with selected libraries to assign themes, book titles, schedules, and coordinate with scholars to sign up for discussion slots.
    • September – The ICfL will send promotional materials and books to libraries.
    • Early October – Libraries will promote the program locally and recruit participants.
    • November 2025 to April 2026 – Libraries will host three LTAI sessions.
    • April 30, 2026 – All books must be returned. Reports and surveys must be submitted.

In recent years, the ICfL has diligently enhanced the LTAI collection by creating several new themes and refreshing current themes with new books and content developed by our esteemed scholars. This year, we’re thrilled to unveil a new theme dedicated to celebrating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

  • America250: On July 4, 2026, our nation will mark the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence—a historic milestone that invites reflection, celebration, and inspiration. This anniversary offers a meaningful opportunity to look back on our country’s founding, honor the many contributions of Americans throughout our history, and envision the future we hope to build for generations to come. Through this theme, we’ll explore the founding era, engage with the key documents that shaped our democracy, and consider how their values continue to influence and guide us today.

Virtual Encore – Spring 2022: Author Discussion Series

Still hungry for more of that great LTAI content? Wondering how you’ll fill your time between the end of winter and the start of spring? Well we have cooked up something exciting to help curb your craving and keep you engaged during the mud season! Join us for three exciting lunch-and-learn sessions were you can fill your belly and your brain at the same time.

We have invited the authors of three of our newest titles to give a virtual talk about their book in the context of Idaho’s LTAI program/theme. These free online events will be hosted by the ICfL and open to all LTAI participants, librarians, scholars, and the general public throughout the state. Click the link below for dates, details, and registration information.

LTAI and America 250

American flag.

In honor of America250, the Idaho Commission for Libraries and the Let’s Talk About It program are featuring a special theme throughout 2025 and 2026. Find participating libraries and program details below.

Bonneville County Library District

“Forge” by Laurie Halse Anderson

Date: Thursday, November 13, 2025

Scholar: Kim Madsen Dill

“Founding Mothers” by Cokie Roberts

Date: Thursday, January 15, 2026

Scholar: Carrie Seymour

“1776” by David McCullough

Date: Thursday, March 12, 2026

Scholar: Clark Draney

Coeur d'Alene Public Library

“1776” by David McCullough

Date: Wednesday, January 28, 2026

Scholar: Nancy Casey

“Founding Mothers” by Cokie Roberts

Date: Wednesday, February 25, 2026

Scholar: Stacy Boe Miller

“Caleb’s Crossing” by Geraldine Brooks

Date: Wednesday, March 25, 2026

Scholar: Ron McFarland

Meridian Library District (Pinnacle Branch)

“Common Sense” by Thomas Paine

Date: Tuesday, January 27, 2026

Scholar: Jennifer Black

“1776” by David McCullough

Date: Tuesday, February 24, 206

Scholar: Susan Bailey

“Founding Mothers” by Cokie Roberts

Date: Tuesday, March 24, 2026

Scholar: Jennifer Black

National Endowment for the Humanities logo
Idaho Humanities Council Logo
Institute of Museum and Library Services

The Let’s Talk About It program is made possible by the Idaho Humanities Council, the National Endowment for the Humanities, a grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services which administers the Library Services and Technology Act, and the program is administered by the Idaho Commission for Libraries.

LeAnn Gelskey

LeAnn Gelskey

Accessible Services Library Consultant
Email / 208-639-4148
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