On Saturday, November 3, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., the Chelsea Public Library and Raising a Reader will host the 13th Annual Family Literacy Day: Chelsea Reads at the Chelsea Public Library. The event aims to bring families together to celebrate reading and visit the library.
According to Jeanette Velez, Coordinator for the Chelsea/Revere Family Network, “I was born and raised in the U.S., but my mom didn’t speak English, and I felt like I was lacking in my vocabulary,” “I wanted to make sure my boys were always reading and learning. Take the time and read in any language with your child because that will help them build a vocabulary.”
The library will feature more than 13 local community organization tables where families can participate in engaging literacy activities, including decorating baseball caps. Young attendees ranging from infants to teenagers will have access to face painting, green screen photo opportunities, and complimentary backpacks containing books.
Sarah Gay, Chelsea Public Library director, noted that “The backpacks are the heart of the event because that’s what we started out doing and continue to raise funds for,” “For some kids it’s the only opportunity for them to get new books. I love seeing people with a lot of books and being happy.”
Among the special guests reading to children during story time will be City Manager Tom Ambrosino. Additionally, pages from “Can You Say Peace?” by Karen Katz will be displayed on boards throughout the library for families to enjoy as they explore the space.
Velez added, “Chelsea is a diverse city,” “With everything that is going on in the world, we are encouraging kids to know we are all the same.”
Visitors will also be greeted by Clifford the Big Red Dog, and Off Broadway Dance Studio will perform Latin and Bollywood routines for attendees.
Margot Johnson, co-founder of Literacy Day, former traveling bookstore owner, and retired member of Reach Out and Read, Chelsea MGH, shared that “There was a time 25 years ago when kids didn’t know what a library was,” “Literacy is very important.”
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Family Literacy Day Committee: Margot Johnson, Sarah Gay, and Jeanette Velez.