Coronavirus & Music: NPR’s Book of the Day Host on Industry Recovery

The COVID-19 pandemic profoundly impacted numerous sectors, extending far beyond public health. While the immediate focus was on clinical care and vaccine development, the ripple effects touched industries like live music and, unexpectedly, the world of books. Andrew Limbong, a reporter for NPR’s Arts Desk, has documented both of these disruptions, offering a unique perspective on the pandemic’s multifaceted consequences.

From Live Music to Literary Landscapes

Limbong’s reporting initially centered on the near collapse of the live music industry as lockdowns and social distancing measures took hold in 2020. Concerts were cancelled, venues shuttered, and musicians faced unprecedented financial hardship. His work captured the anxieties and uncertainties of an industry brought to a standstill. This experience, however, seemed to inform his later work in the literary world, as he transitioned to hosting NPR’s Book of the Day podcast and contributing to NPR’s Books We Love initiative.

The Books We Love project, as described in a November 24, 2025 NPR broadcast, is an annual effort to compile a diverse collection of favorite books from NPR staff members. Unlike typical “best of” lists, it aims for inclusivity, soliciting recommendations not just from book critics and editors, but also from producers, business staff, and individuals across the organization. This year’s compilation included approximately 380 entries, categorized by tags to help readers find books tailored to their interests – from fiction and nonfiction to specific themes like book club selections, love stories, or sports-related narratives.

Beyond Genre: Organizing Books by Reader Interest

Limbong emphasized the organizational structure of Books We Love, noting that it allows readers to mix and stack the tags to pinpoint books that align with their preferences. This approach moves beyond traditional genre classifications, recognizing that readers often seek books based on mood, theme, or specific interests rather than simply whether a book is categorized as fiction or nonfiction.

A recent segment focused on plot-driven nonfiction, highlighting Emma Pattee’s Tilt as a compelling example. The book centers on a pregnant woman navigating a Portland, Oregon, ravaged by an earthquake while attempting to reach home from IKEA. Limbong described it as a speedy book driven by the protagonist’s urgent need to move from point A to point B, overcoming obstacles along the way. This selection illustrates the project’s commitment to showcasing a wide range of nonfiction, appealing to readers who appreciate a fast-paced and engaging narrative.

The Power of Biography and Everyday Observations

Another book featured in Books We Love explores a seemingly mundane yet surprisingly significant aspect of fashion: the disparity in pocket sizes between menswear and womenswear. The book focuses on the work of fashion designer Claire McCardell, who in the 1930s and 1940s sought to create more practical and sporty, yet still beautiful, clothing for women. McCardell recognized the functional advantage of pockets and actively worked to incorporate them into her designs, challenging the prevailing norms of the time.

This example demonstrates the breadth of topics covered by Books We Love, extending beyond grand historical narratives or weighty philosophical treatises to encompass everyday observations and design innovations. It highlights the project’s ability to find compelling stories in unexpected places.

A Broad Scope of Coverage

Limbong’s career at NPR began in 2011 as an intern for All Things Considered, and he subsequently held roles as a producer and director for Tell Me More. His reporting for the Arts Desk covers a wide range of topics, from the mental health challenges faced by streamers on Twitch to the legal battles surrounding Britney Spears’ conservatorship. This diverse portfolio reflects a commitment to exploring the intersection of arts, culture, and contemporary social issues.

Originally from Brooklyn and a graduate of SUNY New Paltz, Limbong’s background is as varied as his reporting. Prior to his work in journalism, he held a position at ShopRite, demonstrating a willingness to embrace diverse experiences and perspectives. This breadth of experience likely informs his ability to connect with a wide audience and approach his reporting with empathy and understanding.

The work of Andrew Limbong, both in documenting the impact of the pandemic on the live music industry and in curating the Books We Love project, underscores the importance of arts and culture in navigating challenging times. His reporting provides a nuanced and insightful perspective on the ways in which individuals and communities adapt, innovate, and find meaning in the face of adversity.