MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
United Way, Library Partner for “United Read Connect” Event in Hutchinson
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Families across Reno County will have the chance to pick up free books and connect with local resources during the annual “United Read Connect” event this weekend.
Hosted by United Way of Reno County in partnership with the Hutchinson Public Library, the event will take place Saturday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at DCI Park.
Now in its fifth year, organizers say the event has grown well beyond its original goal of simply distributing books to children.
“We started out just trying to get books into the hands of kiddos here in Reno County,” said Carla Stanfield, Director of Marketing and Development for United Way of Reno County. “Now it’s really like a book fair mixed with a resource fair and a ton of fun all in one place.”
This year’s event will feature nearly 1,300 brand-new Scholastic books, all available at no cost. The selection includes early readers, chapter books, nonfiction titles, and graphic novels, ensuring options for a wide range of ages and reading levels.
The effort builds on programs like the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, which provides free books to younger children but ends when they reach kindergarten.
Organizers say “United Read Connect” helps fill that gap while also supporting a critical educational benchmark: reading proficiency by third grade.
“Before third grade, you’re learning how to read. After third grade, you read to learn,” Stanfield said. “This is one way we’re helping kids stay on track.”
More than books: Community resources
In addition to books, about 35 community partners will be on-site offering information, activities, and services. That includes local nonprofits, youth programs, and service organizations.
Families can expect:
- Touch-a-truck experiences with police, fire
- Activities from groups like Big Brothers Big Sisters and the Boys & Girls Club
- Free popcorn, snacks, and hot dogs
- Bounce houses and hands-on activities
The event is also designed to connect families with resources that address everyday needs, from childcare and food assistance to financial services.
“A lot of what we do is guidance,” Stanfield said. “Helping people understand what resources are available and who to ask.”
Supporting ALICE families
Organizers emphasize the importance of reaching ALICE households — those who are Asset Limited, Income Constrained, and Employed. In Reno County, that group makes up a significant portion of the population and often lives one unexpected expense away from financial hardship.
The event aims to provide both immediate support — like free books — and long-term connections to community programs.
Event Details
- What: United Read Connect
- When: Saturday, May 2, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
- Where: DCI Park, Second Ave. and Main St., Hutchinson
- Cost: Free
Stanfield says attendance has steadily grown, with about 400 people attending last year, and organizers hope to see even more families participate this year.
“It’s really about creating an equal playing field,” she said. “Every child deserves access to books, and every family deserves to know what resources are available to them.”