State Library of Louisiana

Basic Reads

The State Library of Louisiana’s Basic Reads collection is a set of high-interest/low-vocabulary books that are suitable for new adult readers or for those who need a quick and easy introduction to a topic. It includes both fiction and nonfiction items, all of which are available for checkout by state employees or by request through interlibrary loan.

Among the works of fiction are basic reads versions of many literary classics such as Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book and books of short stories by other literary greats. Also available are books of more contemporary interest including stories of mystery, romance and human interest. Nonfiction works include biographies, history, sports figures and books about contemporary situations and issues.

A list of items available in this collection can be found in the State Library’s online LibGuide for Adult New Readers: Basic Reads–Fiction and Basic Reads—Nonfiction

Adult Literacy

The State Library also has a collection of literacy resources for students and teachers available for checkout or by request through interlibrary loan. A list of items available for that collection may be found in the State Library’s online LibGuide in Adult Literacy.

For more information, contact our Reference Desk at 225.342.4913 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .