Giannoulias Launches Statewide Summer Reading Challenge With Chance to Throw Out First Pitch at Wrigley Field

CHICAGO – Secretary of State and State Librarian Alexi Giannoulias, the Illinois Literacy Foundation and the Chicago Cubs are launching Illinois Reads Together, a statewide summer reading challenge that gives students who complete their local library’s summer reading program the chance to throw out the ceremonial first pitch at Wrigley Field.

The initiative builds on the free summer reading programs already offered by public libraries across Illinois. Students who complete the reading goals established by their local library will be entered into a statewide drawing for the chance to win an unforgettable Cubs experience.

“Reading opens up doors for young people, but too many students miss out on valuable learning opportunities over the summer months,” said Giannoulias. “Illinois Reads Together is a fun way to keep kids engaged while supporting the outstanding summer reading programs already offered by public libraries across our state. We’re proud to partner with the Illinois Literacy Foundation and the Chicago Cubs to inspire more families to visit their local library this summer.”

“We’re proud to support young readers across Illinois to help keep their momentum going all summer long,” said Mo Khan, Board Chair of the Illinois Literacy Foundation. “By partnering with public libraries and the Chicago Cubs, we’re building on the incredible work libraries already do and adding an exciting incentive that encourages more young people to discover the lifelong value of reading.”

To participate, students simply enroll in their local library’s summer reading program and complete the reading goals established by their library. Participating libraries will submit the names of qualifying readers to the Illinois Literacy Foundation, which will randomly select 20 winners from across the state.

The winners will receive recognition before the Chicago Cubs’ September 16 game against the Atlanta Braves at Wrigley Field. One winner age 13 or older will also have the opportunity to throw out the ceremonial first pitch.

Illinois Reads Together is open to school-age students enrolled in participating Illinois public library summer reading programs. The initiative aims to help combat the “summer slide,” the learning loss many students experience during summer break, by encouraging children to continue reading throughout the summer while strengthening participation in local library programs.

For more information about Illinois Reads Together, residents are encouraged to visit their local library.

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