Book Buddies

Spend an afternoon reading to local preschool students!

Overview

Book Buddies connects one-time volunteers with local preschool students at Friday afternoon reading events throughout the winter and spring. Book Buddies events provide a mix of large group and small group reading opportunities and arts & crafts time to complement the selected books for an afternoon of fun and merriment! 

Book Buddies is run in partnership with the Evanston Public Library (EPL), Northwestern’s Jumpstart program, and local Evanston preschools. EPL and Jumpstart staff provide volunteer orientation and support for all Book Buddies events. 

Sample Book Buddies Schedule

3:30–3:45pm

Volunteer check in and orientation
3:45–4:00pm

 Whole group circle time lead by Evanston Public Library staff
4:00–4:20pm

 Small group reading with volunteers
4:20–4:50pm

 Craft and activity time
4:50–5:00pm

 Clean up and volunteer debrief

 

Volunteer Expectations

Volunteers are asked to arrive on time and stay throughout the entire event. Volunteers should bring a government issued photo-ID (driver’s license, state ID, or passport) to complete a background check authorization form on site. Volunteers should wear comfortable clothes and shoes. 

Upcoming Events

Book Buddies events take place most Friday afternoons in February, April, and May. See the schedule below for upcoming events and locations: 

  • Friday, April 5 at 1840 Asbury
  • Friday, April 12 at 1840 Asbury
  • Friday, April 19 at 1840 Asbury 
  • Friday, April 26 at 1840 Asbury

Sign Up Form

Sign up for a Book Buddies event here! 

Signing up for an event via the above form reserves your volunteer space. Volunteers will receive a reminder email with final the week of the event. 

Email us at bookbuddies@northwestern.edu and we’ll be in touch with last minute volunteer openings as they become available!