The following article was submitted by Therese Horstketter, an Adult Associate at the Manitowoc Public Library.
There are many things that one can be “caught” doing—but getting caught reading is healthy, entertaining, and, dare I say, law-abiding!
And there’s no better time to be apprehended while absorbed in a great read than May, which just so happens to be National Get Caught Reading Month.
For many readers, documenting the list of places to read and other ways to enjoy reading could fill the pages of a photo album or scrapbook. Well, that’s exactly what we’re hoping to accomplish at the Library this month.
Manitowoc Public Library is holding a “Get Caught Reading” contest to showcase the many ways that readers enjoy their books and the spaces in which they read. Do you have one favorite area where you head to get lost in a well-told tale? Does that locale change with the seasons? Or does the vibe of the book lead to a change of reading scenery? Do you always carry a book in your purse, suitcase, tote bag, or car, so that you never get caught without an engrossing story when the urge to read arises? Does your child always have a favorite book at bedtime or carry one around in their backpack?
Here’s a thought—why don’t you take this contest and use it as an on-ramp into our Summer Reading Program? Make this a fun last month of school activity before diving headfirst into summer. Perhaps arrange a scavenger hunt that leads folks into finding everyday things to read, like a cereal box or a menu or directions on how to assemble something. You and your family may discover just how many things that you read every day without even really paying attention to the fact that you’re doing it. Don’t forget that all reading is, well, reading!! It’s just that simple!
Snap a shot of yourself, family, friends, co-workers, pets, etc. reading! Be as original and creative as you choose, but remember that we are a family friendly place. So, if you take a pic of a reader in a bathtub, make sure that the bubble coverage is sufficient!
We will happily accept your photos, emailed to thorstketter@manitowoc.org, through May 23. Your entries will be posted on our Facebook page for voting from May 24 through May 31. Winners will be announced in early June. And Chamber Bucks will be awarded to the victors!
Posed or casual, kids and/or adults, I am sure everyone has some fun thoughts in mind—just snap and send! And “Get Caught Reading!”
