About
Who We Are
Founded in 1984, Authors in April is a non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization that promotes literacy in the greater Rochester community by bringing in renowned authors and illustrators each year to the public and parochial elementary and middle schools. Unique to Rochester, this one-of-a-kind program inspires children to read, encourages them to appreciate a variety of literature, and opens their worlds to a life-long love of reading. Each year four authors are invited to participate in Authors in April. Throughout the school year, students explore the authors’ books with the support of their information literacy specialists (ILS), librarians, art teachers, classroom teachers, and parents in each school. Families have the opportunity to encourage their child’s passion for reading by purchasing Authors in April books at discounted prices at their school.
Programs
Authors in April Week includes author visits and presentations at each school, a community benefit banquet, and an autograph party at the Rochester Hills Public Library.
PAL (Promoting Area Literacy) was added in 2016. Through the PAL program, supporters are able to donate money which is used to give Authors in April books to children in need in the Rochester community and the neighboring Pontiac School District. Teacher resources and enrichment activities are also provided to selected classrooms in Pontiac.
Each year over 10,000 students are impacted by Authors in April.
Awards
Authors in April was the recipient of a 2019 Library of Congress State Literacy Award, recognizing the organization’s outstanding contributions to the promotion of literacy and reading in the community. Authors in April was also the recipient of a 2016 American Association of School Librarians (AASL) Affiliate Assembly Commendation Recipient, receiving validation and praise at the national level for successful programs. Locally, the Rochester Community Schools recognized Authors in April through its Spotlight on Success program in October, 2012.
Community Involvement
Authors in April supports local community activities throughout the year. Watch for us in the Rochester Hometown Christmas Parade, check out our Scarecrow in the City, join our Scavenger Hunt, and come visit us at the PTA STEM Family Event.
Board Members
Jenny DeCuir
President
Participants Committee
Jennifer Windeler
Vice President
Participants Committee
Wendy Lehman
Secretary
Rochester Hills Public Library
Monica Grogan
Treasurer
Rochester Community
Lynnette Teller
Rochester Community Schools
Pat Klein
Parochial School
Jamie Rawcliffe
PTA Council
Renee Myers
Rochester Community
Jennifer Lin
Rochester Community
Naomi Walters
Rochester Community
Lauren Coleman
Rochester Community
Shavonne Jacobson
Rochester Community