Illinois State Library

READ FOR A LIFETIME

School/Library Participation Form  |  Reading List  |  Student Participation Form  |  Final Reporting Form  |  Key Points

Welcome to Read for a Lifetime, a program sponsored by the Secretary of State and State Librarian and the Illinois State Library.

Read for a Lifetime was the first statewide reading program to target high school students.

The primary goal of the program is to promote the enjoyment of reading, by encouraging students to read both classic and contemporary literature, and rewarding them for their effort.

Hopefully, by participating in Read for a Lifetime, students will develop a love of books and reading that will last a lifetime.

Illinois high schools participating in the program receive a list of 25 book titles. The list represents a mixture of classic and contemporary literature.

Some English honors classes, gifted classes, reluctant readers and children with learning disabilities use the list annually.

Each student who reads at least four titles from the list during the school year receives a certificate of achievement signed by Secretary of State Jesse White.

During the first 12 years of the program 14,269 students and 20 adults from more than 500 high schools and public libraries throughout Illinois have read 62,200 books.

278 high school seniors have received special recognition for having completed the program requirements during all four years of high school.

30 students have read all 25 books and to date, one student completed the program all four years, and read all 25 books - each year.

Originally programs in various cities were coordinated at a particular high school. However, over the years, many public libraries have assumed the responsibility, so join the fun!

Contact Jeanne Urbanek for additional information at (217) 524-0050.