'Gardens of Reading' to Host Premier Event

Spend your Saturday afternoon celebrating the joys of literacy!

The Book Drive and Art Activity, sponsored by Gardens of Reading will be held Saturday June 7, between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. at the Grace Presbyterian Church located at 153 Grove St. in Montclair.

In addition to collecting books, the event will feature a series of story time sessions and an art activity.

Gardens of Reading is an initiative created by Montclair High School graduate Gabrielle Peterson who is now a student at Smith College. Started back in November, Peterson came up with the idea because she feels that businesses and offices should promote literacy.

“Usually when you walk into a waiting room, there are toys and a television, but there are never books,” said Peterson. The initiative creates “an easy way for these places to have books.”

The “gardens,” crates full of children's books, are placed in offices so that children can read while waiting for parents or appointments. Peterson hopes that the gardens will help children to read more and encourage businesses to promote reading and provide books as well.

Tomorrow’s event is being hosted to collect books for the gardens, raise awareness about the program, promote reading and provide families with a fun art activity. Join Peterson and other community members to learn more about the organization and enjoy fun and educational activities.

For more information please visit: The Gardens of Reading Facebook page or e-mail Gardensofreading@gmail.com