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Local children can read aloud to NIU students at DeKalb Public Library, chat about stories

October 2, 2012

Photo of two boys reading a book in a libraryNorthern Illinois University’s Common Reading Experience, Orientation & First-Year Experience and the DeKalb Public Library are collaborating to increase literacy in the greater NIU and DeKalb communities.

From 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 7, children will get a chance to turn the tables and read to NIU students.

NIU faculty and staff are encouraged to bring their families to the DeKalb Public Library, 309 Oak St., to participate in the event. The library will provide a variety of books for the children to choose and read to an NIU student volunteer.

Children who are not yet reading still can participate by having an NIU student read to them.

After reading, children will have a chance to talk about their story with the student volunteer and enter a drawing to win a large chocolate-molded bear from the DeKalb Confectionary.

Logo of the DeKalb Public LibraryThis collaboration stems from Northern Illinois University’s Common Reading Experience (CRE).

The CRE is an interdisciplinary initiative that promotes dialogue and a sense of community among students, faculty, staff, and citizens of the DeKalb/Sycamore area. Main goals of the CRE are to create a Northern Illinois University campus and greater DeKalb area community culture of reading and to counteract a societal decline in core literacy skills.

The book selection for the 2013 academic year, “This I Believe II,” encourages dialogue about core beliefs. The project works to include students, staff, faculty, alumni and community members in uncovering, sharing, respecting and discussing individual beliefs to promote a sense of community based on a common reading experience. The project enhances a climate of respect, multicultural awareness, and appreciation for diverse backgrounds and experiences.

Copies of this year’s selection can be checked out at the DeKalb Public Library.

For more information about NIU’s Common Reading Experience and upcoming events, call (815) 753-1535 or email orientation@niu.edu.