In order to spark engagement in reading, the library will begin its DGN Summer Reading Bingo program May 20. To attract more readers, participants will be able to log their progress, and if lucky, get Bingo and win varying prizes.
“Our hope is that through the choice of books that we built into the program that students will find enjoyment reading this summer,” library department chair Allison Bava said.
The library had reached out to staff members prior to the pre-registration launch. To accumulate a variety of books of different genres, staff members were asked to recommend a book and include a description of the plot.
“I chose ‘The Secret Book Society’ by Madeline Martin. It is a historical fiction set in the Victorian era that explores the true oppression women faced in the 1800’s through strong, fictional characters. The women face abuse and psychiatric placement if they access the books their fathers and husbands banned from them,” English teacher Jeanette Lawler said.
Upon reading her recommended book, Lawler would like readers to be able to learn more about this age in time and how it has affected the world today, while potentially developing a love for reading.
“I hope the students who read it understand that women who support one another can be instrumental to each others’ lives, and the freedoms we have today are because women have been fighting for equality for centuries,” Lawler said.
The staff members’ book genres range from fiction and fantasy to horror and romance. This wide spectrum of choices, the library hopes, will draw in a diverse group of readers. Sophomore Alexandra Dietz believes that this plan will do just that.
“Giving students multiple options when it comes to choosing a book is a great idea to promote summer reading,” Dietz said. “By allowing students the opportunity to choose books that they will enjoy while also offering prizes for completion, I think that other students and I will for sure take more time over the summer to get some reading in.”
The library staff hopes that students will gain the same perspective on reading this summer as Dietz has. Through the program, they aspire to make the process fun and perhaps generate a love for reading among the students of DGN.
