One 2 Read 2017 focused on getting books to second graders and hosting author performances. More than 2,500 second graders received a copy of Pete the Cat and His Four Groovy Buttons. More than 400 students saw the author, Eric Litwin, perform and more than 450 community members attended two additional performances at the Cedar Rapids Public Library.
The library performances included groovy buttons for children, made by Youth Achievement AmeriCorps members, and a books sign by Mr. Litwin. Families brought their own well-loved books for signatures and purchased new Litwin books from Barnes and Noble Booksellers. A portion of the proceeds from the sales were donated back to Friends of the Cedar Rapids Library.
Sponsored by Friends of the Cedar Rapids Public Library, Friends of the Marion Public Library, and Reading into Success, the event was a great success. Planning has already begun for 2018. The book for 2018 will be announced in June and will be followed by months of planning for more activities to engage the community in the joy of learning to read.