UF George A. Smathers Libraries to host Read-A-Thon and Edible Book Contest

April 3, 2009

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — The University of Florida George A. Smathers Libraries are looking for readers for its seventh annual Read-A-Thon and bakers for the third annual Edible Book Contest.

The Read-A-Thon will be held at various times from April 13 to 16 under the Plaza of the Americas canopy in front of Library West. Readers may share a ten-minute segment of a short story, poem, play or excerpt from their favorite book. The event, which celebrates National Library Week, will feature free Five Star Pizza and other food. “Humor Day” will be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Monday, April 13. Young-adult literature will be read from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Tuesday, April 14. Readers presenting at noon will read to elementary-age children. “Open Topic Day” will be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesday, April 15. Following the Edible Book Contest, readers may sign up to read consecutive selections of “A Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy” from 12:30 to 2 p.m. on Thursday, April 16.

The Edible Book Contest will be held at 11 a.m. on April 16 on the walkway in front of Library West. The public is invited to vote for the best overall entry from 11 to 11:30 a.m. Winners will be announced at 11:45 a.m. A team of judges will determine the winner in each of the following categories: Most Creative, Best Use of Chocolate, Best Adult Book and Best Children’s Book. Entries must relate to a book in some way. Prizes will be given to each category winner.

Both events are free and open to the public. Visit http://www.uflib.ufl.edu/readathon for more information and to sign up for the Read-A-Thon and the Edible Book Contest.