Anticipation filled the air as students of Riverside K8 gathered outside on a brisk, spring Cleveland morning, to unveil an exciting surprise. As classes arrived at the courtyard, they were presented with a small hint of what awaited, as staff passed out colorful book markers and washable tattoos to each student.
After attentively listening to guest speakers, students were encouraged to participate in an energetic countdown that erupted with cheers and clapping, as CMSD Chief Academic Officer Dr. Selena Florence unveiled the first Dog Man-themed Little Free Library.
Donated by author/illustrator and Cleveland native Dav Pilkey, in partnership with Scholastic, Riverside is the first school to receive the Little Free Library on their campus. In addition, all Riverside students are the first to receive a copy of the newly released book, “Dog Man: The Scarlet Shedder.”
The “Power Up with Reading” initiative strives to place the Dog Man-themed Little Free Library book-sharing boxes in all fifty states, and Pilkey said he will donate 50,000 books to help children ignite a passion for reading.
“We are super excited and the energy in the air is awesome,” said Assistant Principal, Heather Kama-Starr. “We are very honored to have partnered with Scholastic and the Little Free Library organization, and to now be affiliated with Cleveland author Dav Pilkey is simply gre
at.”
In support of the literary growth and learning of CMSD scholars, at the unveiling was Cleveland Ward 17 Councilman Charles Slife, who presented a resolution on behalf of City Council. Also in attendance were members of The Cleveland National Counsel for Jewish Women, WKYC Meteorologist Anthony Copeland, and Little Free Library Board of Director’s member Shauntina Lilly.
Observing the atmosphere and taking in the energy of the students after they received their books, Director Lilly said, “This project is very special, because reading can truly change a child’s trajectory in life.”
She went on to say, “So if you’re out, and you see a Little Free Library, grab a book and share a book. We never know just how important that might be for the next up-and- coming author.”
Dav Pilkey is widely known for the bestselling Captain Underpants and Cat Kid Comic series. Currently, he is reaching communities that are part of the Little Free Library Program, which focuses on granting book-exchanges in under-resourced communities.