The Gaithersburg Book Festival offered all kinds of activities and exhibits to bring literature to children, adults, families and friends. There were book readings and signings, writing workshops, and so much more. At the Children’s Village, where we had set up the Story Tapestries booth, visitors could hear story times in different languages, meet with authors of children’s and young adult fiction, view many performances and participate in a multitude of other activities.
Executive Director Arianna Ross brought boxes and boxes of pre-loved books for the donation table. Visitors to the booth were encouraged to take home a few books for donations of “a quarter up to a $1 million – I’m sorry we can’t make change!”
There were also two creativity tables for our younger visitors to show their artistic side. Our young visitors didn’t hold back on their imaginations as they put color, glitter and sequins on their pictures.
The Story Tapestries booth had many visitors interested in learning more about the arts education work we do. And also old friends who showed support by dropping by.
Ariana happily shared how she used elements of music, story, and dance to entertain and educate. Story Tapestries is passionate about the work we do in organizing artist-in-residence programs to teach creative writing and storytelling, often combining subjects like STEM with arts strategies, and equipping educators with innovative ideas to engage their students.
We had a great time at the Gaithersburg Book Festival, raised $225 with the books, and ran out of glitter glue! Special events like these are an important way for us to reach children who we don't see in our regular day-to-day programs with resources for improving literacy.
We're happy to be able to share stories like this that let you know how your dollars have made a difference.
Thank you for helping us make such programs possible!
