Illinois has much to be proud of, from fantastic food to classic films, iconic music, legendary authors and some of the best sports teams in history.
The 2016 Great Read community literacy group will host numerous special events, programs and activities this winter and spring to celebrate everything “Made in Illinois.”
This year’s Great Read Opening Gala will feature scholar Leslie Goddard exploring the history behind the tasty treats that made Chicago the candy capital of the world from 2-4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 20 at the Plainfield Public Library, 15025 S. Illinois St., Plainfield.
This free program is open to the entire community. Candy and books will be given away.
The 2016 Great Read is presented by a consortium of Plainfield-area public and private organizations to promote literacy, reading, conversation and community in the greater Plainfield area.
Community members are encouraged to read books about Illinois and participate in the many 2016 Great Read-related programs slated through May. Suggested books for both adults and younger readers, as well as films and a listing of events are posted on the Great Read web site: www.greatread.org
The Great Read’s 10 participating libraries will host a wide range of programs and special activities focusing on Illinois, including author readings, food tastings and movie viewings.
As well, Plainfield-area artists of all ages are invited and encouraged to take part in the Great Read Art Contest.
The 2016 Great Read Grand Finale will feature film enthusiast Steve Frenzel’s program celebrating “Chicago in the Movies” from 6-8 p.m. April 28, at the White Oak Library in Romeoville, 201 W. Normantown Road. The Great Read Art Contest winners will also be announced and awarded at the Finale.
In 2008, Reading across Plainfield became The Great Read when new partners from Joliet and Bolingbrook joined the program to encourage broader community participation, better reflect the areas served and emphasize the program’s literary focus.
The Great Read is presented by Plainfield School District 202; Plainfield, Fountaindale, Joliet, Lemont, Shorewood-Troy and White Oak public libraries; Joliet Junior College; Plainfield Township; and the Joliet Barnes and Noble. The Plainfield Foundation for Excellence and the Friends of the Plainfield Public Library also support the Great Read through grants, with additional funding from Plainfield Township, the Joliet Barnes & Noble and Voyager Media.
For more information, visit www.greatread.org.