For Immediate Release: May 12, 2008

Oakland Public Library Announces
Inaugural Adult Summer Reading Program

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(Oakland, CA)—For the first time, adults are invited to “Catch the Reading Bug” this summer and take part in the Oakland Public Library’s Summer Reading Program. The goal is to have fun while encouraging reading and use of the library. The program will run from June 7 to August 9, 2008. The Main Library and all branches of the library system will participate, as will the library’s bookmobile.

The program broadly follows the format of the Children’s Summer Reading Program, a hugely popular event held every summer. It has come about thanks to widespread comments received from patrons who expressed an interest in seeing a similar program for adults. Participating patrons can fill out a raffle ticket each time they read a book and become eligible to win prizes at monthly drawings held at each library location. Prizes will include gift certificates that, in part, support local businesses such as Laurel Books, Bittersweet Chocolate Cafe, and Calaca Loca Taquería.

Patrons who wish to do so may also write brief reviews of the books they have read to share with others. If permission is given by the writer, their reviews will be used at library locations to promote community recommendations. Participants will be free to read any books and types of material of their choice.  

Financial support for this program has been provided by the Friends of the Oakland Public Library. For more information, call (510) 238-3615, or visit the Oakland Public Library’s Website at www.oaklandlibrary.org. The Oakland Public Library is a department of the City of Oakland.

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