Illinois Secretary of State and State Librarian Alexi Giannoulias, the Illinois Literacy Foundation and the Chicago Cubs have launched Illinois Reads Together, a statewide summer reading challenge that rewards students for participating in their local library’s summer reading program.
School-age students who complete the reading goals established by their participating public library will be entered into a statewide drawing for a chance to be recognized before the Chicago Cubs’ September 16th game against the Atlanta Braves at Wrigley Field. One winner, age 13 or older, will also be selected to throw out the ceremonial first pitch.
The program is designed to encourage children to keep reading during the summer while supporting the free reading programs offered by public libraries throughout Illinois.
Participating libraries will submit the names of qualifying readers to the Illinois Literacy Foundation, which will randomly select 20 winners from across the state.
State officials say the initiative is intended to help combat the “summer slide,” the learning loss many students experience during summer break, while promoting the lifelong benefits of reading.
Students can participate by enrolling in their local library’s summer reading program and completing its reading goals. For more information, families are encouraged to contact their local public library.