One City, One Book Encourages Community-Wide Reading

by | Aug 14, 2012

If you’re like me, finding time to read a book can be a challenge. On a good night, I might make it through a few pages before falling asleep. But as Catie and I try to set a good example for the kids, we’re more aware than ever of the importance of reading. And, really, all the clichés do apply: nothing beats reading when it comes to expanding minds and encouraging imagination.

So, if you have fallen out of the habit of reading, what better way to get back into it than through the New Rochelle Big Read – One City, One Book. Sponsored by the New Rochelle Public Library, the Big Read aims to encourage conversation and understanding by asking all people in the city to share the experience of reading a particular book.

This year’s selection is Sun, Stone, and Shadows a collection of Mexican short stories from the first half of the 20th century.

The Big Read will kick off on September 16th, from noon to 5:00pm on Library Green, with a Fiesta Grande to celebrate Mexican Independence Day. Copies of Sun, Stone, and Shadows in English and Spanish, as well as dual language children’s books, will be available at a discounted cost.

Throughout the months of September, October, and November readers may take part in read-a-thons, book discussions, lectures, movie screenings and performing arts events, all free of charge thanks to a grant received by the National Endowment for the Arts.

Let’s get reading!

Read-a-Thon at Huguenot Children’s Library this Saturday

by | Jun 16, 2011

The Huguenot Children’s Library on North Avenue is a special place for young readers (and pre-readers). With my own sons finishing their first years of school, I’m particularly aware of the role reading can play in expanding a child’s mind, imagination, and expressive ability.

So it is a pleasure for me to participate this Saturday in the Funtastic Read-a-Thon, during which elementary school students will enjoy an afternoon of reading, with donations pledged from family and friends for every book or chapter they complete. All funds raised will support the Partnership for the Huguenot Children’s Library, a not-for-profit organization that augments the Library’s regular operating budget for capital improvements, special programs, and book purchases. (Full disclosure: my wife, Catie, serves on the Partnership’s volunteer Board of Directors.)

To register for the Read-a-Thon, please contact Barb Francella at barbfrancella@aol.com. You can also find out how to contribute directly to the Partnership for the Huguenot Children’s Library at their website.