Park Ridge event on April 13 to celebrate public libraries

Library lovers of all ages are invited to bring a book and a chair, and come read on the Park Ridge Public Library lawn to show their support for public libraries. Sponsored by Park Ridge-based civic group Spotlight Elevate Engage, “Get Caught Reading” will take place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, April 13.

“Recent threats against libraries reminded us how important libraries are,” said Spotlight President Mary Fontaine. “They are a key source of reliable information, and they offer a huge range of services, all for free. But we tend to take libraries for granted. So we wanted to bring people together, in a big way, to show much we appreciate the role public libraries play in our communities.”

For the youngest participants, the day will feature story time with community leaders. Among those scheduled to read are State Sen. Laura Murphy at 10:15 a.m.; Fire Chief Jeff Sorensen at 10:45 a.m.; Police Chief Bob Kampwirth at 11:30 a.m.; and Mayor Marty Maloney at noon.

“The Storytellers are going to be a real draw because of who they are,” said Becky Mills, Spotlight treasurer and one of the event coordinators.” It wasn’t hard to get them to come read because they actually like doing it.”

The event will also include a mug shot photo station where participants can get “caught reading,” the chance to write thank you messages to library staff, games and activities for the kids, plus plenty of room to sit and read or chat with friends. Signs are welcome, but please no sticks.

Park Ridge favorite Triple Scoop’d Ice Cream will be on site with ice cream available for purchase.

In addition, people are invited to drop off their used books or magazines for the Park Ridge Public Library Friends of the Library sale.

The Park Ridge Public Library is at 20 S. Prospect Ave., directly across from the Park Ridge Metra station. Free parking is available in the library lot, on some nearby city streets and in the underground parking garage across the street from the library on Summit Ave., between Touhy Avenue and Northwest Highway.

Spotlight Elevate Engage launched in February 2023, to shine a light on local issues and candidates, combat misinformation and promote civic engagement.

For more information, visit spotlightee.org.