Community 5K and Scavenger Run
The Swarthmore Public Library Book It 5K Walk and Run ends Sunday. Because of the Covid-19 pandemic, the race, which is a major fundraiser for the library, is being held virtually this year. After registering online, participants can walk or run a 5K any time until May 2.
Swarthmore Public Library director Amber Osborne says she loves the race: “I get to see the community come together, with moms and daughters and dads and sons running, getting excited about being outside and supporting the library, which is pretty cool.”
Those participating in the Book It 5K are also invited to take part in the Scavenger Run, a scavenger-hunt activity designed for teams and families. The list of Scavenger Run items is available on the Swarthmore Public Library website. To opt in, all that participants need to do is keep an eye out for these items as they run, and take a selfie with each item they find. These selfies should be sent to the library via email (at bookit@swarthmorepubliclibrary.org) or posted to the library’s Facebook page (tagged with the challenge number and #bookitscavenger).
The person or team that finds the most items will win a prize, and everyone who finds 10 or more items will be entered into a raffle to win another prize. The prizes are provided by the Bryn Mawr Running Company, Martindale’s Natural Market, and Longwood Gardens.
Runners are also encouraged to wear silly hats. “It could be a snowman hat, a flamingo beret, or an oversized metallic top hat,” says Osborne. “The sillier the hat, the better!”
There is a $22 entry fee for individual runners or walkers, and a $75 fee for families. All proceeds directly benefit the programs and services of the Swarthmore Public Library. You can find more information about registration as well as route suggestions here.
