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Reading a gift to last a lifetime

Letter congratulates Summerland library staff on nine-hour reading event.
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Reading Event Summerland author Don Gayton reads from one of his books during a day of reading at the Summerland Library on Thursday. From 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Dear Editor:

Congratulations to Sue Klein and the staff of the Summerland library for the successful hosting of the nine-hour Read Around the Clock event on Jan. 16 in celebration of Literacy Day!

Local teachers who voluntarily brought their well-behaved, enthusiastic students to hear local people read from a variety of literature are also to be congratulated for their support and foresight.

With many students plugged in throughout the day, where do they go to experience the firing of the imagination and not just be entertained?

As one of the readers, I was delighted when one of the students said, “I wish that you could read that story again.”

Apparently some children had never been to the library and were excited to find this trove of educational treasures and self-learning.

Never been to the library, can you believe it?

Even though modern libraries have visual and digital resources in addition to books and magazines, they are still sanctuaries, a vital oasis for mind and spirit in this no time to be, just do, society.

Adults who regularly read to children and have children read to them are giving them one of the most rewarding gifts that will last long after the stuff of life has faded.

Readers may be alone, but never lonely.

Laurie Rockwell

Summerland