The One Book Thomas County program is based on similar programs all over the country. Each year, Thomasville, Georgia, and its surrounding counties -- including two cities outside the Thomas County limits: Valdosta, Georgia, and Tallahassee, Florida -- dedicate a week-long celebration to literacy and to one book in particular. Together, residents of the community read the selected book and discuss its themes in book groups and educational settings, both casual and formal. Organizations from all over the community partner together to host a variety of themed activities and events dedicated to literacy and to One Book, including poetry readings, art contests, health screenings, and more, depending on the year's book selection.