The programs consists of four discussions at public libraries led by a local scholar. Among the topics are global environmental problems, trade, China and conflict resolution.
Participation is open to everyone from high school students to senior citizens.
The program has been held in more than 300 libraries in 13 states since 1992. It is expected to run in almost 200 sites during the 2000 election year. The Choices for the 21st Century Education Project is a program of the Thomas J. Watson Jr. Institute for International Studies at Brown University.