You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.
We are so pleased to announce the 2025 SPOT Reading List!
The Spirit of Texas (SPOT) Reading Program hopes to encourage a greater understanding of what it means to be a Texan, and to develop an appreciation for the literary works of and about Texas and Texans. SPOT is a recommended reading list developed by public and school librarians from the Young Adult Round Table (YART). The purpose of the list is to encourage youths in grades 6-12 to explore a variety of current, quality books from Texas authors and illustrators, develop critical reading skills, and to encourage greater interaction between Texas authors and illustrators, Texas librarians, and Texas youth.
The books on this list reveal so many diverse experiences of living in Texas and what it means to be a Texan.
The SPOT Reading List is not designed to support any particular curriculum. Librarians are not required or expected to purchase every book on the list. Due to the diversity in age range and topics, librarians should follow their local collection development policies and guidelines when considering which titles to purchase for their library.
Full list
National Library Week, taking place April 19–25, 2026, is a time to celebrate the vital role libraries and library professionals play in our communities.
Public libraries have long been trusted community spaces. But today, they are playing an even more critical role—helping individuals build skills, find jobs, and create new economic opportunities. In a […]
