The Boston Public Library is set to host its 27th annual Hundred-Year Book Debate on February 10, 2026, an event that promises to merge literary passion with lively discussion. This year, three notable works published in 1926 will be at the forefront, as local experts passionately advocate for their chosen titles.
The debate will feature Hilary Justice, the Patrick and Carol T. Hemingway Scholar-in-Residence at the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, representing Ernest Hemingway’s classic novel, The Sun Also Rises. Regie Gibson, the Commonwealth’s First Poet Laureate, will champion Langston Hughes’ debut collection, The Weary Blues. Lastly, Jackie C. Horne, a professor of children’s literature at Simmons University, will advocate for A.A. Milne’s timeless story, Winnie-the-Pooh.
Each advocate will present their case based on the literary, historical, and cultural significance of their selected work. After the presentations, audience members will have the opportunity to engage in a lively discussion, moderated by Kennedy Elsey, cohost of the morning radio program Karson and Kennedy.
At the conclusion of the debate, both in-person attendees and virtual participants will cast their votes via QR codes, determining which book will claim the title of the evening’s champion. The winning title will earn its advocate “bragging rights,” as well as a gift certificate to a local bookstore, according to Lisa Fagin Davis, chair of the Hundred-Year Book Debate committee.
Davis, who also serves as a professor of library science at Simmons University, emphasized the spirited nature of the event. “When people are fighting for their favorite book, those are high stakes!” she remarked, highlighting the enthusiasm participants bring to the debate.
Elsey, who has hosted the event five times, expressed her affection for the library and its role in the community. “This event fills my book nerd heart,” she noted in an email.
The debate not only aims to entertain but also to raise awareness of the library’s extensive Special Collections. Amanda Doyle-Bouvier, the newly appointed head of the Associates of the BPL, pointed out that the library houses first-edition copies of all three debated titles, with some signed by their authors. The Associates contribute over $1.2 million annually to support conservation and cataloging projects within these collections.
As the library seeks to serve its community, Doyle-Bouvier believes that “lifting up the history and any lessons contained in these cultural artifacts” is crucial. This sentiment resonates with Davis, who views the debate as an opportunity to connect current readers with the literary heritage of the past century.
Attendees are encouraged to bring creativity to the event, with some dressing up or crafting signs in support of their favorite books. The atmosphere often becomes vibrant, featuring applause and gasps as advocates present their arguments.
Past debates have seen unexpected outcomes, such as last year’s surprise win for Virginia Woolf’s Mrs. Dalloway over the anticipated favorite, The Great Gatsby. “Every year, I think I know who’s gonna win and every year I’m wrong,” Elsey added, which contributes to the excitement surrounding the event.
The Hundred-Year Book Debate will commence at 6 p.m. in Rabb Hall at the BPL’s Central Library in Copley Square. Admission is free, but reservations are required and can be made through Eventbrite.
