Readers called to become Hardcover Heroes

Iris and her kitty Martha are keen to get their read-on in the Read-A-Thon.

LOCAL readers are being challenged to pick up a book for 15 minutes a day while raising money to provide free books to children across the Nambour region.

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library at Nambour Community Centre will hold its first Hardcover Hero Readathon from June 8 to 22.

The fundraiser asks participants to read for at least 15 minutes on each of the 15 days and seek donations from friends and family in support of their efforts.

Program volunteers Manda Boyd and Dr Grace Lynam said the challenge was designed to help children and families make reading part of their everyday routine.

“Unlike a traditional readathon, where individuals are tracking minutes or books read and compete to be the winner, we wanted our readathon to promote healthy reading habits for all,” they said.

“Not everyone reads at the same rate or the same books for that matter, but everyone can enjoy the pleasure and benefits of reading in their daily life.”

There is no requirement to record the number of books completed or minutes spent reading beyond the daily challenge.

Every dollar raised will go towards providing free books to children enrolled in the local Imagination Library program.

Prizes will be awarded to the three highest fundraisers, with support provided by Treetop Challenge Sunshine Coast, The Ginger Factory, Hologram Zoo Sunshine Coast and Nambour Cinema.

Local artists Shaye Hardisty and Karen Lynch have also created book bags and crowns for the winners.

Every participant who raises at least $108 — enough to fund books for one child for a year — will enter the draw for a bonus prize.

“Challenge yourself to read 15 minutes for 15 days and get your crew to support your heroic effort,” the volunteers said.

• Follow Imagination Library at Nambour Community Centre on Facebook for registration details, prize information and readathon updates. Contact dpil@nambourcc.org or (07) 5441 4724.