How did this project start?

This project was started as a gold award project by girl scout Verena Runstadler. The gold award is the highest award a girl scout can earn, and it aims to give back to the community sustainably.

This project aims to inspire children of all ages, in particular, 2nd through 5th graders, to get excited about reading through interactive activities.

Each backpack contains multiple activities and guides to direct kids through the process. Corresponding with the theme of the backpack are books that travel with the backpacks, and were selected to connect with the bag’s activities. Also located in the backpack are journals where users can make notes of their thoughts and what they choose to do.

For more information, see the descriptions of the backpack on the Swampscott Public Library website.

Email verena.gsema@gmail.com with any questions.