Reimagining Poly’s Book Fair as “Literacy Week”

A team of Lower School community members have been hard at work reimagining Poly’s Book Fair. You might remember the book fair from your own childhood; it’s a special time to celebrate books and authors.

“We are building a new celebration of reading and literacy with our community that doesn’t revolve around money or anyone spending money when they are always welcome to the free resources our library provides,” said Lower and Middle School Librarian Alex Bryndzia.

In an effort to support equity and inclusion around the book fair, Lower and Middle School Librarians Alex Byrndzia and Yvette Pompa, Lower School Director Theresa Tran, and LSPO Literacy Week Chairs Marisa Callahan ’P 31, 32, 35 and Miriam Robinson P’ 30, ’32 are reimagining the event to celebrate the heart and soul of literature. This year, the book fair will be called “Literacy Week,” and it will focus on accessible resources that all of the Poly community can enjoy at the library.

The week-long event will kick off on Sunday, November 17 with a one-day sale of Mija Books, a local POC-owned bookstore that specializes in diverse books that everyone in the community can see themselves in. There will also be a used-book fair, in which community members are welcome to bring used books to the library or purchase significantly reduced-cost books. “Literacy Week” will also include a Parent Education discussion with author Tina Bryson, a favorite character themed dress-up day, in-class writing activities, and at-home suggestions for unplugging and curling up with your favorite book.

“Our job is to put books in kids’ hands,” said Yvette, “This event is an all-school commitment to reading, and that’s what we hope this week will offer.”

We’re thrilled to see how this event has been reimagined to suit the needs of our students and families. We look forward to seeing you at the Lower and Middle School Library on Nov. 17-22.

For more information, check out this schedule of events.

Polytechnic School, 1030 E. California Blvd., Pasadena, (626) 396-6300 or visit www.polytechnic.org.