The idea of a community read on the Great Lakes has grown organically. It was suggested by the author Dave Dempsey and has since taken shape through conversations with a group of individuals interested in advancing Great Lakes Literacy, including the Great Lakes Odyssey.

The first Great Lakes, Great Read program in 2024/2025 was made possible by the WiLS Ideas to Action Fund and by the efforts of the staff at Wisconsin Sea Grant, Wisconsin Library Association and the University of Wisconsin-Parkside.

We are especially grateful for the assistance of Anne Moser (Wisconsin Sea Grant), Laura Sauser (Wisconsin Water Library) and Anna Stadick (UW Parkside).

Additional support provided by the Library of the Great Lakes.