Starting this fall, people in Hood River, The Dalles and surrounding communities will celebrate reading in a very big way, as “The Big Read” brings book readings and discussions, folk dancing, artists, a comedian, theatrical troupe, musical performances and panel presentations to schools, libraries and the campuses of Columbia Gorge Community College.

“The Big Read” is a National Endowment for the Arts partnership with Arts Midwest to broaden understanding of the world, its diverse communities and peoples through the joy of shared reading. Since the initiative began in 2006, more than 5.7 million Americans have attended a Big Read event.

It’s been 43 years since a group of community volunteers in The Dalles decided the Columbia Gorge needed better access to jobs training and an affordable pathway to higher education. That grassroots initiative resulted in creation of the “Treaty Oak Area Education District,” later and better known as Columbia Gorge Community College.

From its origins in downtown The Dalles, the college expanded steadily, now with campuses in Hood River and The Dalles and an ever-growing presence on-line.