Reading Frenzy at Deer Run

Deer Run students spent their Tuesday morning swapping books. About 1,200 of them. Pre-K through second-graders rummaged through tomes creating a veritable reading frenzy inside the media center.

“This is a great and affordable free way to excite kids about reading and increase the types of books they can read," said Assistant School Superintendent Erica Forte.

School librarian Lynne Celentano helped Principal Bill Grimm put together a program where students could donate slightly used books in good condition to the school, and take home two new books. Starting June 1, notices went home with students asking parents to donate books.

“The response was overwhelming," said Celentano. "We received about 1,200 books.  They ranged from pre-K easy readers to chapter books from popular series such as 'Junie B. Jones,' 'Amber Brown,' 'Judy Bluhm' and 'Goose Bumps.'”

Celentano said she also received some beautiful Disney picture books.

“We’ve been doing this book swap for a few years now," said Grimm. "It’s a great way for parents to do some spring cleaning at home by donating books that are in good condition. It gives other students a chance to take home books they haven’t read before for their enjoyment."

Any books that are left over will be donated to an organization in Branford called Read to Grow.

“This is really a win-win situation for everyone involved," said Grimm.