KU Reads continues university, community connections with slate of spring events
LAWRENCE — Several events are planned throughout spring 2026 centered on the KU Reads 2025-26 Common Book, “The Anthropocene Reviewed,” by John Green. From film screenings and engaging reading discussions to pop-up exhibits and community partnerships, the semester’s events encourage students, faculty, staff and the public to explore literature, history and place through conversation and shared experiences.
KU Reads enters the spring following an eventful fall 2025 semester that began with an author visit from John Green as well as conversations about writing, storytelling and humanity’s collective role in shaping the world.
During the fall, KU Reads also launched a new initiative, Lawrence Reviewed, an ongoing project designed to celebrate what makes the KU and Lawrence communities unique. Through this project, participants explored campus icons such as the Jayhawk, a Silvisaurus condrayi dinosaur fossil on display at the KU Natural History Museum and the KU steam whistle.
Spring programming spans multiple Lawrence campus locations and community venues, offering opportunities to experience the Common Book through film, hands-on exhibits, public talks and collaborative events with Lawrence Public Library and other campus partners.
“The spring semester has a lot in store with fun and meaningful ways to connect with the common book,” said Common Book Librarian Sam Greeson. “We’ll continue exploring the unique aspects of KU and Lawrence through Lawrence Reviewed, dive deeper into common book themes through Engaged Readings and enjoy movie screenings inspired by the common book.”
KU Libraries Spring 2026 Events
January
LPL Read Across Lawrence: “The Anthropocene Reviewed”: Kansas Edition!
Lawrence Public Library Auditorium | Jan. 29 | 6:30-8 p.m.
Celebrate Kansas Day and the kickoff of Read Across Lawrence with a special Kansas-focused program. “Kansas Matters” editors Thomas Fox Averill and Leslie VonHolten, joined by special guest CS Luxem, will explore personal geographies, histories and emotions that reflect what it means to be a Kansan today. The evening will feature stories, music, art and community. Attendees will receive a free copy of “The Anthropocene Reviewed.” The Raven Bookstore will be on site with copies of “Kansas Matters: 21st-Century Writers on the Sunflower State.” This event is free and open to the public. Registration is required.
In Conversation with the 2025-26 Common Book
Spencer Museum of Art, Brosseau Center for Learning | Through Feb. 22
Come join a conversation around this year’s Common Book, “The Anthropocene Reviewed,” by John Green. The book prompted the selection of the KU Common Work of Art, “Haunted by the Ghosts of Our Own Making,” by Hollis Sigler, on display at the Spencer Museum. Drawing from Green’s human-centered approach, Spencer Museum staff will reflect on the Anthropocene through artworks from the collection, offering perspectives on the world.
February
Lawrence Reviewed Pop-Up: Review the North Family Papers
Spencer Research Library | Feb. 5 | 10 a.m.-noon
Engage with rare archival materials from the North Family Papers and explore how personal histories shape understanding of place and community.
Discuss “The Anthropocene Reviewed,” by John Green
Lawrence Public Library | Feb. 10 | 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Join a community discussion on this year's Read Across Lawrence selection, “The Anthropocene Reviewed,” by John Green. The event is free and open to all.
Engaged Reading: “Everything Is Tuberculosis,” by John Green
The Kettle, Watson Library | Feb. 12 | 4 p.m.
Join a guided discussion of John Green’s work, connecting themes from the Common Book to contemporary issues and shared reading experiences.
Discuss “The Anthropocene Reviewed,” by John Green
Lawrence Public Library | Feb. 24 | 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Join a community discussion on this year's Read Across Lawrence selection, “The Anthropocene Reviewed,” by John Green. The event is free and open to all.
March
Lawrence Reviewed Pop-Up: Review KU Basketball
Watson Library | March 3 | 8 p.m. (Game day: KU vs. Arizona State)
Experience a themed pop-up event that invites reflection on sports, culture and community at KU.
KU Reads Teach-In (Faculty & Instructors)
March 6 | Half-day event
Faculty and instructors will come together for an interdisciplinary teach-in centered on the soon-to-be-announced 2026-27 KU Reads selection and related themes.
Lawrence Reviewed Pop-Up: Review Civic Education
Dole Institute of Politics | March 9 | 5:30 p.m.
Explore how civic education shapes democracy and public life through interactive exhibits and discussion.
April
Matinee Movie in the Kettle: “Harvey”
The Kettle, Watson Library | April 3 | 2 p.m.
Enjoy a classic film screening in a relaxed afternoon setting at the library.
Lawrence Reviewed Pop-Up: Review Downtown Lawrence
Lawrence Public Library | April 9 | 4-6 p.m.
Reflect on the history, culture and evolving identity of downtown Lawrence through interactive activities and displays.
Lawrence Reviewed Pop-Up: Review the Bee Tree
KU Natural History Museum | April or May (Date: Dependent on the bees)
A seasonal pop-up exploring ecology, observation and the natural rhythms that connect people to place.
Haricombe Gallery Exhibit: “Common Book Wrapped”
Haricombe Gallery, Watson Library | April-May 2026
A culminating exhibit highlighting creative responses to the KU Reads Common Book through art, interpretation and student engagement.