Rumson PTO Book Fair attendees — and Clifford the Big Red Dog — enjoy a conch shell concert by Forrestdale School Music Teacher John Lebitsch, during the recent event.
Press release from Rumson School District PTO
“I like books,” said Clara Winters, a first grader at Deane Porter School, when asked why she was excited to attend this year’s Rumson School District Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO) Book Fair.
Judging by the number of excited youngsters clutching brand new books in anticipation of taking them home to enjoy, Clara was in good company.
The 2014 Rumson PTO Book Fair, held in the gymnasium of Deane Porter School from October 15 to 22, featured an astounding number of compelling titles to pique the interests of Pre-Kindergarteners through eighth graders at Deane Porter and Forrestdale Schools. Thousands of books and related items were available for immediate purchase, including a selection of titles for adults and young adults.
This year’s attendees were urged to make way for their new purchases by donating gently used titles to the Bridge of Books Foundation. Bridge of Books provides an ongoing source of books to underprivileged and at-risk children throughout New Jersey in order to support literacy skills and foster a love of reading. The generosity of the Rumson school community resulted in the donation of 20 cartons filled with books.
The Book Fair’s Family Fun Night was held on October 22 from 6-8 pm and featured activities such as face painting, crafts, and “King and Queen for a Day” photos as well as a gift basket raffle. Family Fun Night was officially “kicked off” with a conch shell concert by Forrestdale School Band Music Teacher John Lebitsch.
Parent volunteers assisted with book sales throughout the Book Fair event, while eighth graders from Forrestdale School helped out with activities during Family Fun Night.
“We are so fortunate to live in a district with a wonderful Book Fair and terrific community and PTO support year after year,” said Abby Daly, this year’s PTO Book Fair Chairperson. “The money that is earned through Book Fair is invested in new titles for our school libraries to help keep our collections fresh.”
“It’s truly an investment in the future.”
For those wishing to purchase new books for use in specific classrooms, Teacher Wish Lists were made available as well.
Among those perusing the items for sale at Family Fun Night were twin sisters and Forrestdale fourth graders Kira and Lisa Hunt. “The Book Fair is always great,” said Kira. Her sister agreed, adding “Picking out books is a lot of fun.”
