Contagious: Why Things Catch On by Jonah Berger has been selected as the title for “Libraries Read: 1 Book”. Why do people talk about certain products and ideas more than others? Why are some stories and rumors more infectious? What makes things popular? And what makes online content go viral? These are some of the questions addressed in the book.
MCLS invited library staff across Indiana and Michigan to place votes on one of four titles to select one book that we will all read and discuss together for professional development. Jonah Berger’s book captured the most votes. In Contagious, he reveals the secret science behind word-of-mouth and social transmission. He explains how six basic principles drive all sorts of things to become contagious, from consumer products and policy initiatives to workplace rumors and YouTube videos. Contagious combines groundbreaking research with powerful stories.
MCLS encourages library staff to read the book throughout April and May. Related free events will take place through the summer. According to Randy Dykhuis, MCLS Executive Director, “by reading one book together, we aim to create deeper connections among libraries that span geographic and other boundaries.”
Scheduled Events
- Live Twitter Chat Thursdays: Join us every Thursday in June at 2 PM for a live Twitter chat at #LibRead1bk.
- Follow the event and discuss the book on the Libraries Read: 1 Book Facebook event page.
If you would like to host and lead a discussion for other librarians at your location, send an email to Heather Ladiski at ladiskih@mcls.org.
