Reading required material prepares students to answer questions and contribute to classroom discussions. Reading can also help students make connections between lecture and what they have read. However, many students may not be inclined to read, especially when it involves required reading. The “not reading” problem is complex and involves not only students but faculty as well. During this online discussion 2/9/2012 we considered the purpose and value of what faculty assign as reading material and ways to encourage students to read the required materials.