Raton Awarded NEA Big Read Grant

Explore Raton
6 days ago
2 min read

Discover how Raton's NEA Big Read grant brings the community together with engaging events and discussions. Join Raton's literary journey today!

The City of Raton and the Arthur Johnson Memorial Library (AJML) have been awarded an NEA Big Read grant and will kick off a community-wide season of reading and public programs centered on Mary Roach’s humorous, thought-provoking book, Fuzz: When Nature Breaks the Law. Fuzz explores the curious science of human–wildlife conflict—what happens when wild animals collide with human rules, routines, and spaces. The theme is especially resonant for the mountain and mesa communities of northern New Mexico, where encounters with bears, mountain lions, and other wildlife are part of life.

“NEA Big Read gives Raton a fun and meaningful way to come together—across ages and interests—to read the same book, share stories, and explore what coexistence with wildlife can look like in our own backyard,” said Dennie Gum, AJML Library Director.

2026 Big Read Programs: March–June

Following the book club discussion, AJML and community partners will host a series of public activities from March through June 2026, including community readings, writing and arts workshops, nature walks and tours, and a film and media camp. Planned events include:

A Big Read Kick-Off event at Raton’s historic Shuler Theater (March 2026)
Readings and discussions with community groups, including seniors and students
Nature-inspired poetry workshops with Poet Laureate karla k. morton
Nature stories and watercolor workshops with local artist Mauricio Meneses
Guided nature hiking and reading experiences at Sugarite Canyon State Park and Climax Canyon
A Film & Media Camp led by El Raton Media Works, where participants translate Big Read themes into short films

The Big Read season culminates with a public film screening and panel discussion at the Shuler Theater on June 27, 2026, providing a platform for participants to share their creative work and insights. The first official Big Read activity begins right away through the AJML Book Club. Community members are invited to pick up a free copy of Fuzz at the Arthur Johnson Memorial Library starting January 2, 2026, and join the book discussion.

How to Participate

Pick up Fuzz starting January 2, 2026, at the Arthur Johnson Memorial Library
Join the AJML Book Club discussion
When - February 18, 2026, 5:30 p.m.
- Where - Colfax Ale Cellar
- How - Register for the event on:
  - Facebook link: https://www.facebook.com/share/16wGHZXG3c OR
  - Humanitix Link: https://events.humanitix.com/nea-big-read-ajml-book-club

About the Arthur Johnson Memorial Library

The Arthur Johnson Memorial Library exists to serve the public's information, recreational, educational, and technological needs in ways consistent with public library services.