MADISON, Wis. (Wednesday, May 17, 2017) – Madison Public Library Foundation will host its fourth annual Rock & Read fundraiser on Sunday, June 18, from 3-6 p.m. in the Bier Garten at Capital Brewery, 7734 Terrace Ave., Middleton. Rock & Read is an opportunity for the community to celebrate literacy, learning and the city’s nine public libraries. This year’s theme is “Read Like a Badger – Build a Better World.” Guests will have the opportunity to meet the University of Wisconsin Spirit Squad and a surprise UW athlete, plus get autographs and have a family photo taken. Rock & Read proceeds support Madison Public Library’s Summer Reading Clubs and summer literacy efforts.

“This year, we’re focusing our summer literacy efforts on the students who need our help the most,” said Madison Public Library Youth Services Supervisor Tammy Pineda. “There are 7,400 African-American students in the Madison Metropolitan School District, yet fewer than 500 of them are reading at their grade level.

“We’re planning more intentional outreach to kids in summer school and home daycares. We’re also educating people in our community who work with kids over summer break on summer learning loss, and how they can incorporate literacy activities into their daily schedule. Together, we can work to narrow the achievement gap and make reading fun for kids.”

Local bands Yid Vicious and Sean Michael Dargan will return to provide musical entertainment at Rock & Read. Activities include registration for the Summer Reading Clubs, free book giveaways for youth, kids’ crafts, games, and a chance to win unique raffle prizes. Burgers, hot dogs, snacks, soda and Capital beer will be available for purchase. In-Kind Supporter Schoep’s will provide ice cream treats. All fathers and father figures will receive a free raffle ticket with admission.

Rock & Read tickets are available now at mplfoundation.org for a suggested donation of $5 each. Family sponsorship packages are also available.

The foundation thanks the many businesses and organizations supporting Rock & Read: Capitol Bank, TDS Telecom, Woodman’s Markets and WPS Charitable Foundation, Sustaining Sponsors; Alliant Energy Foundation, CenterX, Group Health Cooperative, Mendota Financial, Selinger & Brunette, and Summit Credit Union, Contributing Sponsors; Wisconsin Public Radio and Hulafrog, Media Partners; and Schoep’s Ice Cream, In-Kind Supporter.

About Madison Public Library Foundation: Madison Public Library Foundation promotes and supports Madison’s library facilities, services and programs. Established in 1993, the foundation provides annual project grants, raises funds for capital projects, and promotes awareness of the libraries and their programs. Learn how to support Madison’s libraries at mplfoundation.org, on the foundation’s Facebook page, on Twitter (@mplfoundation) and on Instagram (mplfoundation).