What is the Adopt a Reading Buddy Program?
The Second Annual Adopt a Reading Buddy Program allows children in grades K-3 to adopt their very own stuffed animal reading buddy! This exciting, FREE four-week adventure, sponsored by the Friends of the Library Foundation, encourages kids to visit the library, explore new books, attend special events, complete fun reading challenges, and make reading even more fun with a furry companion by their side. By participating, they’ll earn raffle tickets for a chance to win a giant stuffed bear at the end of the program! Don’t miss out on the fun—your reading buddy is waiting to join you on your next library adventure!
Special Events
Paint a Wooden Picture Frame
Paint your very own wooden picture frame—perfect for holding a special memory with your new stuffed friend. All supplies will be provided! Plus, participating in this event earns you an extra raffle ticket for the grand prize drawing.
Elwood Branch
Session 1:
Tuesday, Mar 4 | 3:30 pm - 4:00 pm
Session 2:
Tuesday, Mar 4 | 4:00 pm - 4:30 pm
Manhattan Branch
Session 1:
Wednesday, Mar 5 | 5:30 pm - 6:00 pm
Session 2:
Wednesday, Mar 5 | 6:00 pm - 6:30 pm
Paint Your Pet's Portrait
Get ready to turn your Reading Buddy into a work of art! Paint a portrait of your stuffed animal companion in a regal, fun, or whimsical style! No art experience needed—just bring your imagination, and we’ll provide the supplies.
Elwood Branch
Tuesday, Mar 11 | 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm
Manhattan Branch
Session 1:
Thursday Mar 13 | 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Session 2:
Thursday, Mar 13 | 5:00 pm - 6:00 pm
Pet-Palooza Finale Celebration
Join us for the grand finale of the Second Annual Adopt a Reading Buddy Program! Bring your Reading Buddy for an afternoon of fun as we celebrate a fantastic four weeks of reading adventures! Play Reading Buddy Bingo for fun prizes! Make your own button to remember your buddy! Grand Prize Raffle Drawing – Will you take home the giant stuffed bear? Don’t miss this exciting wrap-up event filled with games, creativity, and surprises. Let’s celebrate our love for reading together!
Manhattan Branch
Saturday, Mar 22 | 10:30am - 12:00 pm