GET ON THE ROAD TO A HEALTHY READING HABIT THIS NEW YEAR
Join Library’s Read 66 Campaign for All Ages
JACKSONVILLE, Fla., Dec. 28, 2016 – Research shows reading improves memory and concentration, improves sleep (by giving a break from computer screens), can help children bond with their parents, develops empathy to improve mood and relationships, staves off dementia and Alzheimers, reduces stress, and so much more. Research also shows it takes 66 days to form a healthy, strong habit, and this is the basis behind the Jacksonville Public Library’s new reading initiative.
On January 3, Jacksonville Public Library will launch Read 66, a program designed to help everyone solidify the critically important reading habit. The library is issuing a challenge to all: read every day for at least 15 minutes per day for a 66day stretch. Read 66 formally culminates in the library's inaugural Jax Book Fest on March 25.
Several teachers at Duval County Public Schools are also issuing the challenge to their classes, vying for special programs for their classrooms and 10packs of highinterest books to keep if their classes complete the Read 66 program.
Those who accept the challenge can track their progress online with ReadSquared (jaxpubliclibrary.readsquared.com), or on a special Roadmap Reading Tracker (downloadable or available at any library location). There are rewards at the threeweek and sixweek milestones, and finishers receive a free book when they complete Read 66.
"This is such a wonderful program!" exclaims Barbara Gubbin, Library Director, "and it's not just for children we need adults to join in and lead by example. The benefits of reading are innumerable. Everyone needs to read daily!" Staff are optimistic that the launch of this campaign will spark Jacksonville to read more, live healthier, and enjoy the multitude of programs and resources the library has to offer.
For the big finale, the library invites all readers—and the public—to our firstever Jax Book Fest, March 25, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Meet some of your favorite authors and illustrators, enjoy free presentations, book sales and signings, and a variety of children’s activities.
Go to www.jaxpubliclibrary.org/events/read66 to learn more about Read 66, find suggested children’s book titles, and learn how to get your Roadmap Reading Tracker and redeem your progress for prizes.
Jacksonville Public Library is pleased to have Duval County Public Schools, Jacksonville Children’s Commission, and Lutheran Services Headstart taking part in Read 66 and invites you to partner with us for this exciting literacy effort. For more information about becoming a Read 66 partner agency or organization, please call Amber Holley at (904) 6302982.
About the Jacksonville Public Library
The mission of the Jacksonville Public Library is to enrich lives, build community and foster success by bringing people, information and ideas together. Last year, more than 3.4 million visits were made to Jacksonville Public Libraries, items were checked out more than 5.7 million times, and over 13,000 programs and services were offered to Duval County residents at the Main Library and 20 branch locations. For more information about the Jacksonville Public Library, call 630BOOK (2665) or visit jaxpubliclibrary.org.
JACKSONVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY
303 Laura St. N.
Jacksonville, Florida 32202
630-2665
jaxpubliclibrary.org 630BOOK
