Livingstone College News Service

SALISBURY — Livingstone College hosted its annual Children’s Book Festival on April 27.

Designed to promote literacy throughout the Rowan-Salisbury community by creating a love and appreciation for books and reading, the extravaganza included table activities sponsored by Livingstone’s campus organizations such as the Honors Program, which hosted St. Jude’s bike safety coloring activities, Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, which treated guests with popcorn, and the 2024-2025 Royal Court and Student Government Association, which served as the formal hosts.

Benjamin Norman, grandson of the late storyteller Jackie Torrence, served as the DJ.

“Considering my grandmother’s love for stories, music, the arts and the Rowan-Salisbury community, I felt compelled to be a part of this event,” Norman said. “I am happy Mrs. Deborah Johnson gave me the opportunity to lend my time and talents. I know my grandmother is proud.”

Theatre Arts professor Kendris Quick was the featured story time reader and community organizations such as Communities in Schools, Food Lion, McGlaughlin’s Grocery and the Delta Xi Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated lent their support to the event with contributions of time, resources and services.

Community attendee Briana Jackson said, “This is a great Saturday outing for our family. Children can play, eat, and shop for books in a welcoming and friendly environment that is assuring for parents.”

From Bulldog Rentals’ bounce houses and slides to Gaming Excursion’s game trucks, it was a fun-filled day for children who all left with literature in hand and in mind.