September 8 is International Literacy Day—a day to remind one other of the importance of reading in creating a bright future. As book-lovers who play a big part in helping to grow a thriving, reading community through Calgary Reads Big Book Sale—we thought we’d share all the ways to celebrate and inspire reading throughout September and beyond.

Here are 10 ways to share in and spread the joy of reading in Calgary this fall:

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1. Visit Little Red Reading House

At this magical storybook home in Inglewood, children and families rediscover the joy of reading. In spaces like the Shel Silverstein room and Whale of a Tale bathroom, stories come to life and reading is magical. Plus, thanks to the Book Bank, there’s a book somewhere in the house for your child to take home and keep. Learn more

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2. Join a Book Club

If you’re new to the city or you’re looking to join a book club, this is a great way to connect with other readers. If you like to be curious and think and laugh in the morning, you’re always welcome at Big Book Club, which is carrying on the 30-year tradition of Literary Kaleidoscope with illuminating guest speakers and meet-ups at Marda Loop Hall. Learn more and join

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3. Take 10 to Read a Book with a Child (and Make it Fun)

When children enjoy reading, they are more likely to feel happier, grow in confidence and do better at school. Taking even 10 minutes a day to read together helps your child build a lifelong love of reading while learning words and developing empathy and problem-solving skills. Here are some tips for making reading funfrom Take 10 to Read.

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4. Join the Educators Networding event

This is a free professional learning event for K-3 educators that explores the art and science of reading--featuring Dr. Sonia Cabell. It's presented by Kids Literacy Collective and takes place Saturday, Oct. 4 at North Trail High School. Link to RSVP coming soon!

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5. Donate Children’s Books to Book Bank

Are there books at home that your kiddos or grandkids have outgrown? The Book Bank gets gently used baby board books, picture books and chapter books to families who need them most through agencies, Little Free Libraries and Little Red Red Reading House. Donation days are the first Saturday of every month at ShedPoint. Learn more.

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6. Be a Friend of a Little Free Library

Calgary is home to more than 50 registered Little Free Libraries, and many more unofficial LFL’s, where you can take a book, give a book. This is a great way to keep books in the cycle and discover new titles yourself. You can also show an LFL a little love by giving it a dust off or maybe fastening loose door hinges. If you meet the LFL steward, thank them! Find Calgary’s Little Free Libraries.

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7. Participate in WordFest Events

We are SO fortunate in Calgary to have the opportunity to engage with authors and an incredible community of readers through WordFest events. This fall offers an exceptional lineup, including a Sept. 24 presentation/interview/Q&A with Bob Joseph, author of 21 Things You Need to Know About Indigenous Self-government.  This October, we’re treated to 30+ authors here for the 30^th anniversary of Imaginairium. What an electric way to be a reader among readers! Learn more.

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8. Become a Big Brothers Big Sisters Mentor

Did you know that helping a child become a stronger reader is just one of the ways mentors can make a BIG difference through Big Brothers Big Sisters of Calgary and area? In as little as one hour a week, you can help a child reach their potential. Learn more about volunteering.

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9. Join in the Pink Hat Day family literacy march and celebration

This is a free family-friendly event for parents and kids 0-8, and educators celebrating childhood literacy. It takes place Oct. 5 at the Alexandra Centre Society from 1-4 pm. Don your pink hats and toques as we hear from author Dr. Sonia Cabell, take part in family literacy activities and begin a neighbourhood march for childhood literacy. Link to RSVP coming soon!

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10. Read a Calgary Book

This city has a rich tradition of inspiring writers! Local historian Shaun Hunter’s book Calgary through the Eyes of Writers is a literary journey through our city. Alongside each excerpt, Hunter presents delightful and informative connections between place and story. A timeline anchors the passages and marks significant moments in its literary history. Maps and an index invite readers to find their own trails through a complex and storied city. PS, Hunter curates the Calgary Reads Big Book Sale tables of books about Calgary and books by Calgary writers. Learn more.

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We love helping book-lovers and early literacy supporters discover reader-y things to do in Calgary! Visit the Calgary Reads Big Book Sale website so you can join our monthly newsletter and get events and news right to your inbox.

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