CHATHAM — The Chatham Library’s Annual Young Readers Picnic returned on Thursday, August 14, drawing hundreds of children, teens, and families for an afternoon of celebration, treats, and community spirit. Held each summer as the culmination of the library’s Summer Reading Club, this year’s picnic welcomed more than 300 students who participated in the reading program, along with their families and neighbors.
This year’s event was made possible with the help of many members from the Kiwanis Club of the Chathams and Madison, who volunteered their time and energy. Those in attendance included Marge Ahrens, Gary Arnesen, Pat Arnesen, Karen Brodsky, Frank Cahill, Neil Cooperman, Stephanie Cooperman, Mary Beth Gabel, Art Harper, Judy Harper, Mary Anne Maloney, Justin Montanaro, Joe Murphy, David Mutchler, Shirley Mutchler, Karen Shippey, and Stu Shippey.
Joining them were five members of the Madison High School Key Club, who assisted the Kiwanians in handing out soft Philly Pretzel Factory pretzels, small water bottles, ice cream cups, and colorful sherbets—each neatly wrapped or served with paper napkins. The Kiwanis Club also generously purchased the Philly Pretzels, ice cream, and water for the event, adding a true taste of Philadelphia tradition to the afternoon.
The preparation began early, as Stu and Karen Shippey, along with David Mutchler, set up the tent and organized the serving table. Mutchler delivered four large boxes of giant soft pretzels, which were carefully separated, wrapped, and placed on trays. Gary and Pat Arnesen transported more than 200 assorted ice cream cups and sorbets, which, along with chilled water bottles, were kept in coolers packed with ice to beat the summer heat.
The turnout reflected the popularity of the program, with 309 children, teens, and adults attending the picnic. Chatham Library Director Karen Brodsky expressed her gratitude to the Kiwanis volunteers, writing, “It was so nice to see so many members of the Kiwanis Club at the picnic. An official thanks will come from Youth Services Head Jaime Sabonye in the near future.” Brodsky also shared the impressive results of the library’s summer reading program: 537 kids collectively read 10,097 books this summer.
Frank Cahill, Governor-Elect of the NJ District Kiwanis International, praised the event’s impact on the community: “There’s no better way to encourage young readers than by gathering together—pretzel in hand—to celebrate their achievements. Events like this remind us that when Kiwanis partners with our schools and libraries, we help build not only better readers but stronger communities.”
Kiwanis Club of Chatham and Madison President Stephanie Cooperman said, “I was absolutely delighted to see how warmly the children and their parents embraced this year’s Picnic For Young Readers. The weather could not have been better, and the pretzels, water, ice creams, and sherbets were enjoyed by all. What made the day so special was not only the excitement of the kids, but also the tremendous effort of the library staff in preparing everything in advance. It was a wonderful celebration of reading, community, and summer fun. Thank you to everyone who helped make it possible—I look forward to seeing you all again in August 2026!”
The Chatham Library’s Young Readers Picnic continues to be a highlight of the summer, bringing together volunteers, students, and families to celebrate both community and the love of reading.
