At its core, this shift isn’t about literature — it’s about looking like a reader. Books have become an accessory, a personality trait and a status symbol. As a result, people are reading more visibly than ever. The joy of getting lost in a story, of struggling with complex ideas and of truly reading seems to be fading.

Pep Band is back at the Beanpot! The last time they performed was a month before the world went on lockdown.

School of Music students in the BU Baroque Orchestra performed in an intimate virtual concert Tuesday.

The day-long festival, typically filled with live performances and interactive events, will be broadcast by NBC10 Boston, NECN, Telemundo Boston and on the First Night website.