Great Decisions

Great Decisions is America's largest discussion program on world affairs. The program model involves reading the Great Decisions briefing book, watching the video series, and meeting in a group to discuss the most critical global issues facing America today. Each year, eight topics are chosen by a panel of experts. Petoskey District Library has been participating for the past several years in this valuable program provided by the Foreign Policy Association (fpa.org).

These issues are challenging to understand, so the purpose of the group is not to participate as an expert, but to work together to gather and share information so that you can form your own educated opinion. Come ready to hear different perspectives, learn about new resources for information, and connect with your fellow community members. 

New for 2026 will be an in-person option in addition to virtual attendance over zoom, and meeting at a new time and day of the week. Since this is a group learning process and not an expert lecture, you will get the most by attending as many of the 8 sessions as possible. As usual, you’re asked to pre-read the corresponding topic articles in the FPA produced Briefing Book.  We will view a FPA produced video lecture during each session. We hope to see you!

What you need: 

• Briefing Book (these provide expert background on the subject so you can arrive with a little common background with other participants): Available to check out in the magazine room, purchase your own copy for $28 at the main desk, or you may purchase your own on the fpa.org website.
• Zoom link (if desired): Email mhohlbein@petoskeylibrary.org for the link. Don’t forget this option when the winter weather makes travelling a challenge!