Common-book program receives hundreds of nominations

Nearly 700 titles were submitted for the inaugural book in the university’s Go Big Read common-book program, which will begin in the fall. There were 387 unique titles among the 693 nominated.

The largest number of submissions came from students: 263 in all and approximately 40 percent of the total.

Also weighing in with their choices were 162 university staff members and 95 faculty members, along with alumni and members of the local community.

A review committee of faculty, staff, students and community members has been going over the list and considering how well each of the books meets the selection criteria posted on the Go Big Read Web site.

The committee will submit an annotated list of titles to the steering committee, which will then submit a short list to Chancellor Carolyn “Biddy” Martin. She will make the final selection in early April.

The Madison Public Library System has expressed interest in participating in the program.