Beaufort County Public Library System began its own program,One County One Book, with events in March, April and May 2003. Pat Conroy's The Water Is Wide was selected by a group of librarians and citizens as the first title in this community project. Criteria for selecting a title included availability in paperback and film, author's other works and national reputation , themes and subject matter that make for good discussion and programming, and reading interest of the community.

The committee for the 2005 One County, One Book series has chosen Homer Hickam's Rocket Boys. Criteria for selecting a title included availability in paperback and film, author's other works and national reputation , themes and subject matter that make for good discussion and programming, and reading interest of the community. Moreover, the film version of the book, October Sky, was a success with both audiences and critics when released in 1999.

From April through May of this year, various public library locations
will offer programs in their communities to be announced on this Web site. Local bookstores, theaters, and book clubs will also participate in this project.

Local Connections to Rocket Boys Author!
St. Helena’s Shane Smith “Knew Hickam When”!

• Buy a copy of the book at a local bookstore, especially if they like to write, highlight or mark passages in what they're reading.
  
  
• Attend reading and discussion groups as advertised in local media and at their public library.
  
  
• Spread the word to friends, family, and coworkers about this community-wide reading project.

• Check out any available copies at their nearest branch library of the Public Library system.

• Attend a screening of the film version of the book.
  
  
• Attend any programs sponsored or cosponsored by the library for this project.
  
  
• Provide feedback for the next reading project.