Reading Crusade
Please note
Information contained in media releases is correct at the time, but may change after publication. Please check the Library News page for latest updates about library services or contact us, ph: 9417923.
19 March 2007
Canterbury’s rugby stars are leading the crusade to encourage children, especially boys, to read more.
Children who read six books between now and 23 April will get a 2007 Reading Crusade certificate printed with the signatures of the Crusaders team and go into the draw for some fantastic prizes, including several chances to watch a special training session with the Crusaders and join members of the team for lunch.
Organised by Christchurch City Libraries in partnership with the Crusaders Rebel Sport Super 14 2007 rugby team, the Reading Crusade is open to all primary and intermediate school children in the Crusaders franchise catchment, which includes Canterbury, the West Coast, Nelson and Marlborough.
“The Reading Crusade is promoted directly to schools. Children simply need to read six fiction or non-fiction books, complete an entry form, hand it in to their teacher who then forwards the forms on to Christchurch City Libraries,” says Christchurch City Libraries Children’s and Young Adult Services Co-ordinator Bill Nagelkerke.
“Entry forms must be received by Christchurch City Libraries no later than Monday 23 April 2007.”
Local MP Ruth Dyson spoke last week at the official launch of the Reading Crusade. She says the event is all about encouraging people to read, and to read well.
“The most important reason to read is that it is so much fun. You can learn so many things about the world from your own bedroom," she says.
This is the third time the Crusaders and Christchurch City Libraries have worked together on a Reading Crusade. The first in 2003 attracted 7000 entries and gained a 3M Innovation Award for Reading Literacy. In 2005, the Crusade received more than 13,000 entries.
In the next few weeks, members of the Crusaders team will visit Upper Riccarton, New Brighton and Bishopdale Libraries to promote the Reading Crusade and meet children from various Christchurch schools.
More information about The Reading Crusade is available on the web site including a map showing the schools that have taken up the challenge.
