BRIDGEPORT PUBLIC LIBRARY WITH BRIDGEPORT PUBLIC SCHOOLS EXPAND PARTNERSHIP AND CELEBRATE “READ ALOUD DAY”
Rowena White
-For Immediate Release-
Media Contact: Rowena White
Cell: (203) 257-0031
BRIDGEPORT PUBLIC LIBRARY WITH BRIDGEPORT PUBLIC SCHOOLS EXPAND PARTNERSHIP AND CELEBRATE “READ ALOUD DAY”
BPL and BPS Team Up to Bring All 3rd Graders to Library in Month of March
March 12, 2026 (Bridgeport, CT) – The Bridgeport Public Library (BPL) is proud to celebrate Read Aloud Day on March 12th while highlighting a strengthened partnership with Bridgeport Public Schools (BPS) that promotes literacy and reading among students across the city.
The initiative reflects a shared commitment between the public library and the school district to ensure that students and families have access to books, literacy resources, and free educational programming throughout the community.
Recent concerns about the loss of school librarians for the 2026–2027 school year reinforced motivations to expand literacy partnerships. While the Bridgeport Public Library has long supported Bridgeport Public Schools through library visits, parent nights, and community outreach events, leaders from both organizations agreed that additional efforts would better connect students and families with public library services.
To address this need, BPL leadership and the BPS Information Technology Department formed a working group to explore new ways to enhance literacy and learning opportunities for Bridgeport students.
Three major initiatives emerged from this collaboration:
Third Grade Library Visits Across the City
Throughout the month of March, all third-grade classes in Bridgeport Public Schools will be transported to visit their nearest Bridgeport Public Library branch for a 90-minute literacy experience. During these visits, students will:
● Learn how the library works
● Participate in story time and creative craft activities
● Check out a library book to take home
Transportation for this experience has been generously provided by the Friends of the Bridgeport Public Library, whose support makes this citywide literacy effort possible.
Expanding Student Access to Library Cards
Bridgeport Public Library is working with Bridgeport Public Schools to distribute library card applications to parents, helping ensure that as many students as possible have access to their local library and its resources.
Library Access During School Enrollment
As of August 2025, families that register students at the Central Registration Enrollment Center at CT State Housatonic now have the opportunity to apply for Bridgeport Public Library cards during the enrollment process, making it easier for students to begin using library services right away.
“Connecting children with books, activities, resources, and a lifelong love of reading is central to our mission,” said Elaine Braithwaite, City Librarian. “Through this partnership with Bridgeport Public Schools, we are making sure every student knows that each branch of the Bridgeport Public Library is a welcoming place for learning, discovery, and opportunity.”
By expanding access to library cards and creating meaningful experiences for students, Bridgeport Public Library and Bridgeport Public Schools hope to strengthen literacy across Bridgeport and encourage families to take advantage of the many free programs, resources, and services available at BPL branches.
“Reading is the foundation of strong academics. Through our partnership with the Bridgeport Public Library, we are expanding opportunities for students and families to connect with books, resources, and experiences that help build a lifelong love of learning,” stated Interim Superintendent Dr. Royce Avery.
For more information about programs and services at the Bridgeport Public Library, visit bridgeportlibrary.org
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ABOUT BRIDGEPORT PUBLIC LIBRARY
The Bridgeport Public Library (BPL) provides resources and services that help patrons meet their personal, educational, cultural, and professional information needs. They aim to be a cornerstone of democracy, offering opportunities for residents to learn, enjoy, and achieve. This is accomplished by providing free and open access to a relevant collection, staff knowledge, and modern facilities. Cultural programs for all ages focusing on art, literature, and music are continually offered at each branch location. Exhibits featuring local artists are always on exhibit in display areas. https://bportlibrary.org/about-bridgeport-public-library/
