A mob is headed to Jackson City Hall on Saturday, June 13. Instead of carrying sticks and stones, they will have books in their hands, ready to participate in the Reading Flash Mob hosted by the Jackson-Madison County Library. This is the first time the library has held such an event.
“We want to draw attention both to the library and more importantly, to the value of reading,” said Children’s Librarian Jennifer Brewer. “We want to show everyone in Jackson how many people think reading is important and inspire children and adults to come to the library and open up a book.”
Brewer shared Library Director Dinah Harris is always looking for ways to reach out to the community and encourage reading.
“Flash mobs are a great way to make a statement, and promoting literacy is the statement we want to make. We also want the community to be aware that our city and county as a whole, have an interest in promoting literacy, not just those of us who work at the library,” said Brewer. “By holding the event at city hall, it will be more visible. Even people who don’t normally come into the library will be aware of it and will hopefully start coming to the library.”
The hope is people of all ages will come out and be a part of the Reading Flash Mob, which is also a way the library is promoting its Summer Reading Program that has activities for children, teens and adults.
“As the children’s librarian, my reasons are more geared toward the benefits of reading during childhood. Reading expands the world for the reader,” said Brewer, who believes reading is a past-time people of all walks of life can enjoy. “It can take you places you’ve never been and introduce you to people you’d otherwise never meet. Reading is personal; it’s introspective. When life gets hectic and stressful, it can be the most valuable escape.”
The Reading Flash Mob will be from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Madison County Courthouse lawn and Jackson City Hall Plaza. People are encouraged to bring a lawn chair or blanket, and find a comfortable place to sit and read. If you do not already have a book to read, stop by the library before going to city hall and check out a book. All you need is a library card. Call (731) 425-8600 for more information.
Do you need a library card? Bring a photo ID with your current mailing address and a piece of mail or lease with your current address. Obtaining a library card is free.
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