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Sep 18, 2026

MIT Reads Program Celebrates 10 Years with New Focus on Fiction and Memoir

Sep 18, 2026
AI Summary

MIT Reads is celebrating its 10th anniversary by shifting its focus towards fiction and memoir to enhance social connection and understanding among the community. The program aims to address the impact of artificial intelligence on education and society, with the fall 2026 book selection being 'Exhalation' by Ted Chiang, which explores themes of technology and humanity.

MIT Reads Program Celebrates 10 Years with New Focus on Fiction and Memoir
  • MIT Reads is reimagining its program as it marks its 10-year anniversary, focusing on fiction and memoir to foster social connection and understanding.
  • The program aims to address the influence of artificial intelligence on education and the social fabric of MIT, emphasizing the importance of collective reading and discussion.
  • Launched in 2016, MIT Reads promotes empathy and belonging through selected books accompanied by author talks, panel discussions, and facilitated conversations.
  • The program's events are open to the public and have a significant online presence, with past talks viewed over 5,000 times.
  • President Sally Kornbluth has chosen 'Exhalation' by Ted Chiang as the fall 2026 book, which addresses contemporary issues related to technology and humanity.
  • The first-year advising seminar will also include 'Exhalation' as part of its curriculum, supporting the broader educational initiative at MIT.
storytellingcommunityfictionmemoirsocial connection