Pilgrim’s sponsors summer reading program

RUSSELLVILLE — Pilgrims Russellville has donated $5,000 to sponsor the Russellville Public Library’s summer reading program, “Unearth a Story,” marking the fifth year the company has funded the program.

Library Director Joshlyn Bowen said the sponsorship allows the library to provide activities, prizes and books at no cost to families. She said the sponsorship allows the library to offer more prizes and programming than it otherwise could.

“Pilgrims’ continued support has truly been the backbone of this program,” Bowen said. “Because of Pilgrim’s, we’re able to provide engaging weekly programs, bring in special guests and performers, offer prizes and give away books Their investment ensures that every child has the opportunity to be part of something meaningful, regardless of their financial situation.”

Bowen said summer reading programs help prevent the “summer slide,” where children lose some of the academic progress they made during the school year.

“Keeping kids engaged with books over the summer helps them return to school more confident and prepared,” she said. “The kids really love the interactive and fun elements. Each week feels like an event, and that keeps them eager to come back.”

Trina Johnson, Pilgrim’s HR management trainee, said supporting the program reflects the company’s commitment to the community.

“We are big in the community, and we like to put ourselves out there and let people know who we are and what we stand for,” she said. “Giving back is a big deal.”

Lindsay Hall, whose sons Tate and Judd have participated in the program for years, said the library program has become part of her family’s routine.

“As a parent, specifically a homeschool parent, our local library is a huge asset to my children’s educational success,” she said. “Beyond academics, literacy helps children understand the world around them, express themselves and build empathy. To me, it’s not just about teaching kids to read. It’s about opening doors for their future.”

The free program will begin the first Friday in June and continue every Friday at 2 p.m., except for June 26 and July 3.

The full schedule will be available May 15 on the Russellville Public Library Facebook page and inside the library. For information, call 256-3321535.

Shown from left, are Tate Hall, Christina Juan, Pilgrim’s employment manager, Joshlyn Bowen, director of the Russellville Public Library, Judd Hall and Trina Johnson in the children’s section of the Russellville Public Library as the library prepares for its summer reading program, “Unearth a Story,” which begins the first Friday in June

PHOTO BY MARÍA CAMP