Two Millcreek businesses are putting free books into residents' hands ahead of a statewide push to get more Utahns reading.
Marissa's Books & Gifts, at 3302 South 900 East, is hosting a three-day free book giveaway Friday, Sept. 25, through Sunday, Sept. 27. Readers can pick up to four books with no purchase required, according to a joint announcement from the bookstore and Granite Credit Union Foundation.
The giveaway leads into the Utah Reads Read-a-Thon on Friday, Oct. 2, a statewide event asking businesses, schools, libraries and families to set aside one hour for reading. Gov. Spencer Cox and First Lady Abby Cox will host a livestream at 9:30 a.m. that day.
The Read-a-Thon has a direct Millcreek connection. First Lady Cox will visit Granite Credit Union's corporate office at 3675 South 900 East for a children's story time on Oct. 2. Attendees can receive a free financial literacy book, cookies and treats while supplies last.
Cindy Dumas, owner of Marissa's Books & Gifts, said the bookstore wanted to make reading accessible to more families. "We believe something powerful happens when you give someone a book of their own," Dumas said in the Sept. 15 announcement.
Granite Credit Union, founded by educators in 1935, is also giving away one free book per person at its corporate office and all branch locations from Sept. 25 through Oct. 2, while supplies last. On Oct. 2, all branches will hold children's financial literacy story times and activities.
The Salt Lake Chamber is encouraging employers to give workers one hour to read at their desks, in break rooms or wherever works best. Businesses can register at showuputah.org.
What's coming up
- Friday, Sept. 25, through Sunday, Sept. 27: Free book giveaway at Marissa's Books & Gifts, 3302 S. 900 E., Millcreek. Up to four books per person.
- Sept. 25 through Oct. 2: Free book (one per person) at Granite Credit Union's corporate office, 3675 S. 900 E., and all branch locations.
- Friday, Oct. 2, 9:30 a.m.: Utah Reads Read-a-Thon statewide livestream with Gov. Cox and First Lady Cox.
- Friday, Oct. 2: Children's story time with First Lady Cox at Granite Credit Union, 3675 S. 900 E., Millcreek.
