Copy of "Enshittification" by Cory Doctorow with the UCSB Reads 2027 badge in front of UCSB Library's Paseo West entrance.UCSB Reads brings the entire campus together every year to read, discuss, and engage with an important contemporary book. The UCSB Reads 2027 book selection is Enshittification: Why Everything Suddenly Got Worse and What to Do About It by Cory Doctorow. 

There are many ways for UCSB students and Registered Campus Organizations to participate in UCSB Reads. Whether you are looking for recreational reading, connecting with peers, or seeking inspiration for your coursework, UCSB Reads offers unique opportunities to engage with important literature, lead or participate in interactive events, and meet world-renowned authors.

1. Get Your Free Book & Start Reading

Chancellor Dennis Assanis, other university leaders and students pose in the UCSB Library with copies of the UCSB Reads 2026 book, "Crying in H Mart" by Michelle ZaunerAnnual Book Giveaway (January)

The easiest way to participate in UCSB Reads is to read the selected book. At the start of winter quarter, join hundreds of students and campus leaders – including the Chancellor, University Librarian, and Associated Students President – in the Library for the annual UCSB Reads Book Giveaway. Free print copies are available for all UCSB students on a first-come, first-served basis.

Library Lending

Missed the giveaway? You can also borrow a copy from the Library. Check the UC Library Search catalog for details and current availability.

Course-Assigned Copies

Many UCSB instructors incorporate the book selection into their winter and spring courses. If Enshittification is assigned in one of your classes, your instructor will provide a free copy courtesy of the Library.

Michelle Zauner provides feedback to students in Professor Brian Donnelly's Catalyst Writing Collective class who had presented their creative works to her on May 7 during a special session held in the Library. The works will be included in the next issue of "The Catalyst," UCSB's Literary Arts Magazine.2. Attend Free Events

Throughout winter and spring quarters, the Library sponsors a variety of free learning, experiential, and social events designed to explore the themes of the UCSB Reads book. UCSB Reads programming typically includes: 

  • Panel discussions, lectures and talks
  • Discussion groups and book clubs
  • Workshops
  • Film screenings and artistic performances
  • Exhibitions

__alt__Signature Event: UCSB Reads Author Talk

The program culminates in the spring with the UCSB Reads Author Talk at Campbell Hall. Presented in partnership with UCSB Arts & Lectures, this free public event features a live talk by the author(s) of the UCSB Reads book followed by an audience Q&A and book signing. The event usually sells out so get your ticket early for a rare opportunity to hear directly from the author.

View Upcoming Events

3. Propose or Co-Sponsor Joint Programming (for RCOs)

If the themes of the UCSB Reads book intersect with the mission of your Registered Campus Organization (RCO), please consider proposing or co-sponsoring programming with the Library.

Step 1: Develop an Idea

Explore previous UCSB Reads programming for inspiration and come up with an idea for an event that explores or is inspired by this year’s UCSB Reads book. 

Michelle Zauner, Professor Michelle Petty and 25 students from Petty's Introduction to Creative Writing class. Zauner met with the class on May 7 during a special session held in the Library.Step 2: Get Library Support

Send your idea to UCSBReads@library.ucsb.edu to discuss how we can collaborate.

The Library can provide free copies of the UCSB Reads book and help promote, host, and organize programming such as:

  • Lectures, panel discussions, fireside chats, workshops or book clubs
  • Film screenings or artistic performances
  • Interactive student showcases
  • Physical or digital exhibitions

Step 3: Get Funding

We can assist your RCO in requesting funding from Associated Students and other sources. 

4. Connect UCSB Reads to Your Academic Experience

Three students pose in the UCSB Library with copies of the UCSB Reads 2026 book, "Crying in H Mart" by Michelle ZaunerIn the Classroom

Earn course credit while tackling big questions about modern tech! Register for a winter or spring course that incorporates Enshittification by Cory Doctorow! Instructors across all academic disciplines – from the humanities to the social sciences to science and engineering – integrate the UCSB Reads 2027 book directly into their class curricula. 

  • Course Perk: If Enshittification is assigned in one of your classes, your instructor will provide you with a free copy courtesy of the Library.

Check back soon for a list of participating winter and spring courses, or contact us at UCSBReads@library.ucsb.edu for more details.

Research Papers & Creative Works

Use the themes of the UCSB Reads book as a launch pad for your own research papers, creative works or capstone projects. Our Research & Teaching Librarians are available to help you get started with your project.

5. Make Your Voice Heard

UCSB Reads is shaped by student voices!

Year-Round

Review the UCSB Reads book selection criteria and email your book suggestions for future cycles to UCSBReads@library.ucsb.edu.

Spring/Summer

Vote on the shortlist of titles under consideration for the next cycle. Keep an eye out on social media for the shortlist announcement and survey link!

6. Stay Connected

Follow the Library on Instagram or sign up for UCSB Library newsletters and emails to get information about UCSB Reads delivered directly to your inbox.

More Information