Philipsburg:--- On Sunday September 25th, a large group of about 150 students gathered at the hall of the Philipsburg Jubilee Library for the launching of Readers are Leaders season 2011/2012. The Readers are Leaders program was started by the Philipsburg Jubilee Library and the Rotary Sunrise Club in March 2010. As part of the program, the teenagers run their own book club.The aim of Readers are Leaders is to turn St. Maarten's teenagers into avid readers. High school students are challenged to read at least 2 books per month. As extra incentives to encourage participants to continue reading, prizes are awarded to the participants that read the most books. Last years winners, won Kindles, USB sticks and other nice prizes. The program also has an important online presence as participating students get the chance to chat about their books on Facebook and share book reviews on Goodreads. During last weeks meeting, students got more information about the program and the chance to sign up. The book clubs board members of season 2010/2011, Vincent Ramsami, Hazel Alberts and Tifiana Escallier were thanked with a standing ovation. One of last years prizewinners, Luis Hurtault told the audience about his experiences in the program. Young singer Snatra Bould entertained the youngsters with her beautiful voice. Director of the Philipsburg Jubilee Library Mrs. Monique Alberts and President of the Rotary Sunrise Club, Mr. Hendrik Jan van Ieperen stressed the importance of reading in their speeches. Mrs. Alberts urged the high school students who do not have a library card yet to become library members as soon as possible. As a special offer until the end of October teenagers only pay the ANG. 10 membership fee for an entire year. The customary deposit of ANG. 25 will be waived for high school students who sign up in the coming weeks. High school students, teachers and parents who would like to know more about Readers are Leaders can contact Karia Arnold at the library tel. 542 297, via e-mail This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or they can become fans of Readers are Leaders on Facebook.
