Common Ground: 250 Years of Stories in the Making
For 250 years, our nation has been shaped by many stories. This year, we come together on common ground.
About Common Ground
On July 4, 2026, the United States will commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. America’s Semiquincentennial is an opportunity to pause and reflect on the nation’s journey—its challenges and achievements, the people who shaped it, and the future we hope to create for generations to come.
As a place where learning, civic engagement, and storytelling intersect, the Laramie County Library System offers space for the community to explore this moment of national reflection together.
Common Ground: 250 Years of Stories in the Making brings this milestone to life through a countywide series of programs, exhibits, reading initiatives, and interactive experiences. Together, these opportunities invite our community to reflect on where we’ve been, consider what connects us, and imagine what comes next.
what you’ll find throughout the celebration
Across all LCLS locations, the Semiquincentennial commemoration offers many ways to engage—whether by attending an event, exploring an exhibit, joining a discussion, or contributing your own story.
Programming throughout the year highlights the ways history, place, and shared experiences shape our understanding of ourselves and one another. From local history and national milestones to personal memories and future-facing projects, each part of the celebration adds another layer to our collective story.
Community reads: one book, one laramie county
At the heart of the Semiquincentennial commemoration is One Book, One Laramie County, the library’s community reads program. In 2026, One Book, One Laramie County serves as a unifying experience that invites readers across the county to engage with shared ideas of memory, connection, and legacy.
Through book discussions, displays, and a special author visit, One Book, One Laramie County provides a shared starting point for conversations that echo throughout the broader celebration.
events and programs
From lectures and film screenings to hands-on activities and community conversations, Semiquincentennial programs offer something for all ages and interests. Events take place across all LCLS locations and are designed to encourage reflection, learning, and connection.
Common Ground Beanstack reading challenge
February 1–July 4, 2026
Celebrate 250 years of American history through reading with the Reading on Common Ground: A Semiquincentennial Beanstack Challenge!
This all-ages reading challenge invites readers of every generation to explore history, place, and shared stories through a flexible, bingo-style format. Read at your own pace, choose books that interest you, and discover new perspectives along the way.
Each bingo card includes a variety of reading prompts inspired by America’s history, local and regional stories, and opportunities to connect with library and community experiences. Participants can complete a single row, multiple rows, or aim for a full blackout.
Need ideas for what to read next? Ask a librarian for recommendations or explore curated reading lists linked throughout the challenge.
Join the challenge, track your progress in Beanstack, and be part of a countywide celebration of reading, reflection, and shared experience.
stay connected
This page will continue to grow as new programs, exhibits, and opportunities are announced. Check back often to see what’s coming next and how you can be part of the celebration.
- Browse the events calendar for the latest listings.
- Follow LCLS on social media for highlights and reminders.
Every story matters. Every voice belongs. Join us as we reflect on 250 years—and imagine what comes next.