For students who enjoy reading or are looking to learn more about the library, Big Red Reads serves to educate WKU about the library resources in the Bowling Green community.
Lara McQueenie, a senior public relations major, said she helped start the Big Red Reads initiative as part of a project for their Public Relations Management class. Other students working on the project include senior public relations majors Laila Randolph, Annie Whaley, Rosie Ribble and Samantha Lein.
“We identified that the Warren County Public Library had a gap in participation when it came to young adults and with Bowling Green being such a college town we thought what better way to help gain that age group’s participation than gather students with interest,” McQueenie said.
According to McQueenie, the campaign will take place over the next few weeks with tabling events, silent book club opportunities and social media participation.
“Our goal as a team is to bring more WKU students into the Warren County Public Libraries, uncovering their vast and helpful resources while providing an environment outside of campus to recharge,” stated a post on the Big Red Reads Instagram.
The Big Red Reads campaign encourages students with a passion for reading to take advantage of the free resources provided.
“[We are] trying to spread the word that library cards are not only free but available to anyone in the city, even if you have a temporary Warren County address like a dorm or apartment,” McQueenie said.
Students interested can fill out a form online to request a digital library card, which allows for access to ebooks, audiobooks and streaming services, or a full service card which allows access to physical library items.
The public library offers other free resources including study tools and space to recharge, according to an email sent to students.
The campaign also hosts a Silent Book Club as a way to create a comfortable reading community.
“With our book clubs we also hope to provide common areas that ignite people’s passion for reading and connect them with other students and peers around campus,” McQueenie said. “A fun social hour sharing stories, interests and hobbies and then of course reading your favorite book too.”
The next silent book club event is currently scheduled for March 12. Students can RSVP through the Big Red Reads Instagram.
