One City, One Story returns in January 2027 with a new shared story, The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald, as Monrovia explores the spirit and history of the 1920s through conversations, creative activities, and community events.

About the Program

Monrovia’s One City, One Story is a citywide reading and community-engagement project that invites residents of all ages to share a common book and connect through conversations, creative programs, and community events.

Thank you to everyone who participated in our inaugural 2026 season featuring The Bear by Andrew Krivak. Through book discussions, workshops, art activities, nature programs, and community gatherings, Monrovians came together to reflect on themes of nature, legacy, and connection while celebrating the city’s community spirit and beautiful setting in the Foothills of San Gabriel Valley.

As we look ahead to 2027, One City, One Story will continue building community through shared stories and meaningful experiences. This year’s selection, The Great Gatsby, will inspire programs exploring the culture, creativity, music, and history of the 1920s while celebrating Monrovia’s own past during that era.

In the meantime, explore highlights from our 2026 programs below, including event photos, program impact, and recognition of the community partners and sponsors who helped bring One City, One Story to life, as we begin the countdown to One City, One Story 2027.

Moments from our Community Kickoff Event - Winter 2026

 Community Partners

• City of Monrovia
• Kiwanis Club of Monrovia
• Monrovia Chamber of Commerce
• Monrovia ChangeMakers
• Monrovia Duarte Black Alumni Association
• Monrovia Historical Museum
• Monrovia Parks, Wilderness, and Recreation (MPWR) Foundation
• Monrovia Public Library Foundation
• Monrovia Reads
• Monrovia Rotary Club
• Monrovia Unified School District
• The Friends of the Monrovia Public Library

Program Sponsors

• Athens Services
• Bell Bordona Calabrese Family
• Boys & Girls Club of the Foothills
• Centre Stage, Inc.
• Citrus College
• CST Bearing Company
• Fertig and Gordon Companies, Inc.
• Fiore Legal
• Foothill Credit Union
• Fred's Monrovia
• Gina Ammon & Donna Baker
• Gina Willard Insurance
• Jake's
• Monrovia Community Adult School
• Monrovia Tech Support
• Mountjoy Construction Company
• Oakcliff Neighbors
• Saint Aesthetix
• Sam Wright State Farm Insurance
• Sweet Ethans
• The Money Store
• Tripp 'n Vintage