Wednesday, May 13, 2009

Read-a-thon Raises $13,000!

Everyone who entered the Library on May 2nd noticed something magical was happening. Children were nestled in chairs, sprawled on the floor, leaning against book shelves, quietly and intently reading.

It was the 2nd Annual Read-a-thon. From noon until midnight, kids read books of their own choosing to raise money for children's books and programs.

Over 140 children signed up to take turns reading in the 14 chairs that were sponsored by local businesses, families and friends. And every minute a chair was occupied, they earned a dollar for the Library.

One child read 11 hours. A few young girls read 600 minutes each. And several readers logged in over 300 minutes before the gong sounded at midnight.

In only two years, the Read-a-thon has established itself as the event at the Library. It's enormously popular, by readers of all ages, and exemplifies what we can do when we all work together.

The Read-a-thon was conceived and orchestrated by Linda Bailey and her daughter, Mei. Pledges were made by more than 100 individuals and businesses. Additional donations were received throughout the day from PG patrons. Local teachers and performers stopped by to tell stories, sing songs, and dazzle the children with decorative face-painting. And Library Staff kept readers fueled with books, more books, snacks, and water.

It was definitely a night to remember. And some children are already asking, "When can we do it again?"

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