On Nov. 16, the annual marathon reading during Book Fest took place outside the Dean’s office. This year, students had the opportunity to read both “Marlee and Me” and “Because of Winn-Dixie.” This year, the book sale is being held at Common Good Books instead of at school. This is due to the construction of the Schilling center causing the library classroom to be in use and therefore unable to display books.

Students gathered outside the Dean’s office, settling in the variety of chairs on display for the Schilling center, to listen to students and faculty read in 15-minute slots. The marathon reading, an annual event that was first started in 2015, is an opportunity for readers to engage in a new way with texts.

“I think that literature is such a big part of our society, and so sharing these books with the community is a powerful and personal experience that everyone can learn from,” sophomore Noah Raaum said.

While the book sale might not be held at SPA this year, students and faculty still have the opportunity to buy books from Common Good Books and give back 25% of the proceeds to SPA.