Books, Smiles and Connections at Literacy Fair

More than 100 people came together to celebrate reading and learning at the Mount Waddington Literacy Fair on February 28.

The free event was held at Sunset Elementary School in Port McNeill. 51 books were given to babies, children and teens, and families enjoyed a fun day of activities like blind drawing, a community weaving project and leaving messages of kindness for others.

Every infant, child and youth who attended the literacy fair chose a free book to take home.

"We felt a warm welcome from Port McNeill for our Literacy Fair,” said Kelly Anderson, Literacy Outreach Coordinator. “I noticed that children had big smiles with each activity they worked on, while the adults took their time having conversations with each organization and their table. Deeper connections were made in the North Island community as a result of this event. Thank you to everyone who contributed to this year’s Literacy Fair!"

Storytime with local author Erin Egan and her book  I will love you into being."

Local authors and community organizations shared their activities, services and resources:

• Author Lucy Hemphill

• Author Erin Egan

• Author Karen Stewart

• Immigrant Welcome Centre of Northern Vancouver Island

• School District 85 Early Years

• North Vancouver Island - Aboriginal Infant Development Program

• Gatehouse Community Theatre

• Vancouver Island Regional Library

• Shoprite at Home Bookstore

• NISS Senior Reigns Girls Volleyball team, concession

Mount Waddington Family Literacy Society also sold 30 pairs of “literacy socks” as a fundraiser.

1,2,3: Puppet shows and fun with SD85 Early Years; 4: Author Lucy Hemphill; 5: Checking out the literacy socks!

The Blind Art Challenge and Messages of Kindness were hits at the MWFLS booth!

Fun with literacy games and community weaving activity.

"Experiencing the literacy fair from behind the curtain for the first time gave me a whole new appreciation for the community support and the strong teamwork that makes this annual event possible,” said Jessica Brown, MWFLS Executive Director. "Connecting with people through literacy and books felt really special.”