Great interest as JU Reads was launched at Jönköping University

On 3 September, a launch event was held for JU Reads, Jönköping University’s (JU) new initiative focusing on fiction. Students, staff and visitors gathered at the university library for an event featuring the author Lydia Sandgren, the publisher Albert Bonnier and representatives from the university.

During the afternoon, participants took part in a discussion on the importance of literature for personal development, cultural enrichment, and understanding complex social issues. The launch marked the start of a long-term initiative offering students the opportunity to read and discuss selected books in small groups.

“It was very inspiring to see the huge interest in JU Reads at the launch. This engagement shows that there is a strong desire to come together around literature and culture. Through JU Reads, students are given the opportunity to develop their critical thinking, broaden their perspectives and strengthen their ability to understand both themselves and others,” says Fredrik Ebefors, manager for JU Reads and incoming Library Director.

Aiming to contribute to students’ personal development

JU Reads is based on Jönköping University’s People First vision and aims to contribute to students’ personal development, capacity for reflection and personal growth. This autumn’s books are Educated by Tara Westover and A Small Place by Jamaica Kincaid.

“The launch of JU Reads was a wonderful start to an important initiative that is closely aligned with our People First vision. Literature fosters connections between people and sparks valuable conversations that contribute to students’ personal and academic development. I would like to extend my warmest thanks to the Bonniers Family Foundation and the Hamrin Foundation, whose support has made this initiative possible,” says Måns Svensson, President at Jönköping University.

The conversation drew many laughs

In front of a packed JMW hall, author Lydia Sandgren and publisher Albert Bonnier came together for a discussion on the power and significance of reading. Drawing on their own experiences, they discussed the craft of writing and the publishing industry, from the perspectives of both the publisher and the author. The conversation drew plenty of laughter and served as an illustration of the values that JU Reads aims to promote amongst students.

Japheth J. Tobison is an Orthotics and Prosthetics student from Ghana who has had a strong interest in reading and writing since childhood.

"I write my own poetry, so it feels inspiring to be here at JU Reads and see how reading and writing can influence both my future and my professional life. I often think about how I can combine my creative interests with my profession in Orthotics and Prosthetics to contribute to the well-being of my future patients in the best possible way," he says.

Read more about JU Reads on the student website

Hear Lydia and Albert talk about their visit to Jönköping and why reading is important

Slideshow from the launch