Reading Program Aims to Start Discussions in Community

City and county leaders want to get everyone in the community on the same page — literally. 

The second year of the community reading initiative "One Book, One Columbia" kicks off Jan. 17 and ends Feb. 29.

The book for 2012 is "Saints at the River" by South Carolina native Ron Rash. The award-winning novel tells the story of a small community torn between protecting a river and honoring a family's wishes.

The goal of "One Book, One Columbia" is to start discussions between neighbors about the chosen book, according to the group's Facebook page. Discussion groups and programs centered around the book will be held throughout the reading period. 

Like the "One Book, One Columbia" Facebook page to keep up with the latest news about the program. 

The Richland County Public Library website also has information about the initiative and where to find the book. 

The initiative is sponsored by the City of Columbia, Richland County, Richland County Public Library and the Columbia Council of Neighborhoods.