"Books to Bank On"

Paging Donors: A Bookish Party At Providence Community Library

The Providence Community Library has a particular need to fill the shelves of its nine branches with children’s books, especially before the summer reading period begins. It will host its annual fundraising event, “Books to Bank On,” on Tuesday, April 1 at 5:30 p.m. at the Knight Memorial Library, 275 Elmwood Avenue in Providence. 

“Printed books are essential for children who are learning to read, and even more valuable for children whose families cannot afford to purchase books,” said Laura Marlane, the library’s Executive Director.  “Providence Community Library is likely their only non-school source for books, and we do not have enough books to meet the overwhelming demand by children who simply want to read. Last year, hundreds of children waited weeks for their summer reading books, and that’s unacceptable. Books enable families to read together, promote self-improvement of reading skills, and offer entertainment and imaginative development.” 

At the fundraiser on April 1, four of Rhode Island’s outstanding theater notables will read passages from popular children’s books.
They include:  
Ed Shea, 2nd Story Theater 
Bob Colonna, R.I. Shakespeare Theater 
Anne Scurria, Trinity Repertory Company 
Barry Press, Living Literature

At “Books to Bank On” PCL will begin selling tickets for its unique “Living Book” raffle. The “Living Book” raffle gives library supporters the chance to “check out” real life experiences with local distillers, entertainers, scientists, ice cream makers, and other fascinating people.

Among the most prized prizes are private tours of the treasures of the John Carter Brown Library, of the universe through the telescope of Brown University’s Ladd Observatory, and of the bread ovens at Seven Stars Bakery where you can watch and learn how a master baker performs his magic.
For two months beginning April 1, the library will sell the raffle tickets for $25 per ticket and 3 for $50. The drawings will be held in late May.

PCL’s historic Knight Memorial Library on Elmwood Avenue will serve as the venue for the “Books to Bank On” fundraiser.  Cocktails and hors d’oeuvres will be served. Tickets are $100 and can be purchased at provcomlib.org/BooksBank.  

Sponsors of the event include GTECH, RDW Group, the Providence Journal Charitable Foundation, Hinckley Allen, Hasbro, CVS Caremark and Adler Pollock & Sheehan. 

Established in 2009, the Providence Community Library is the largest free library in the state. Its nine branches provide free, convenient and equal access to programs and services that support our community’s educational, cultural, recreational and informational needs. Visit the library online at provcomlib.org.
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