CHS IB seniors Abigail McCoy and Aileen Yanney organized this year’s event
On Valentine’s Eve, Friday, Feb. 13, Carrollton High School hosted its annual Blind Date with a Book event. Organized by CHS seniors Abigail McCoy and Aileen Yanney, this event aimed to share the love of reading with students and raise money for Ferst Readers, an organization dedicated to improving early childhood literacy by providing free, high-quality books to children.
Blind Date with a Book presents a mystery that encourages students to dive into the world of literature. Students who plan the event wrap donated books in newspapers so readers do not know what book they are purchasing. Each book includes a brief teaser written on the front. There are a variety of books from all genres. This event has become a CHS tradition, drawing participation from students of all grade levels.
Each International Baccalaureate diploma candidate is required to plan and execute a Creative Activity and Service (CAS) project to complete their path of study. Abigail and Aileen organized this year’s Blind Date with a Book for their CAS project.
“I love seeing the collaboration between students, teachers, and student organizations to make this a reality each year,” says CHS Media Specialist Stephanie Holloway.
Additionally, several clubs and individuals came together to help make the event possible. National Honor Society, Beta, Key, and Book Club members donated, wrapped, and decorated books, while IB students and Book Club members volunteered to set up the event. Students from several organizations had the opportunity to earn service hours by assisting. In addition to books, the event has bookmark coloring stations, games, and specialty coffee flavors. Teachers brought classes throughout the day, giving students the opportunity to participate.
Beyond creating a fun school tradition, this event supports an important cause. For Abigail, the reason behind the event is especially meaningful.
“I really believe literacy at a young age is incredibly important due to the fact that I struggled with it growing up. If I had been given a book every month from birth to five years old, I wonder how it would have made my ability any stronger, or how it could have grown my love for reading into something bigger than it is now,” said Abigail, reflecting on why she chose to donate the proceeds to Ferst Readers.
Blind Date with a Book is not only a fun and mysterious literary event; it’s also an opportunity to share the joy of reading with children across the nation. Every book purchased helps ensure that every child can immerse themselves in a world of literature.
