Read-a-Thon 2022!
Chicago Public Library Foundation Fundraiser April 18-May31
My memories of Read-a-Thons are more than fond. Read-a-Thons were a biannual occurrence at my elementary school, an entire day (or afternoon) spent neglecting one’s studies to wear pajamas, settle under a blanket with friends, and dig into as many books as I could. The freedom to cuddle up on the floor of my classroom and devour one of my favorite hobbies was intoxicating and the melancholy of the next morning returned to business as usual was potent.
Last year, the Chicago Public Library Foundation launched the first annual Read-a-Thon in an inspired move to fund raise during the pandemic and I signed up immediately. Even though I fell short of my lofty goal to read 20 books, landing at just over 50% completed with 11 books, I had a blast pushing myself through new volumes (such as No Time Like The Future by Michael J Fox, which you can read about HERE) while taking the time to revisit books I loved when I was younger (Princess Diaries by Meg Cabot). This year, I am aiming to read 15 books and match last year’s fundraising at $250. With generous donations from friends and family, I was able to meet that goal in 2021.
Most exciting this year is my newly formed reading team, The Bodacious Bookworms! My joy in 2021 was clear to many of my book loving friends and this year I’ve brought some of those friends along to form a four person team. I usually thrive as a loner, but the experience is already better with others. One friend, with whom I enjoy friendly, one-sided rivalry, joined the team and immediately raked in donations I doubt I’ll catch up with. Hard to be lovingly disgruntled when it’s all for such a good cause. Another team mate texted me upon completion of her first book within just two days so we could gush over our shared love of a good novel.
You can help me triumph against my blissfully unaware friend The Chicago Public Library Foundation by donating to my official Read-a-Thon Page found HERE. The Chicago Public Library Foundation helps support library programs available to all Chicagoans. You can learn more about their impact HERE.