A number of middle and high school students plan to spend time reading at Ferguson Library’s Harry Bennett Branch on Friday, March 25. That may not sound unusual, but they’ll be earning money for the library while perusing their books.

Members of T-MAD, the library’s teen advisory group, have organized a “Read-in” for the library from 6 p.m. to midnight. They pledge to read during that time, and friends and family pledge a contribution to the library in return.

“It’ll be teens only, students in sixth grade through 12,” said Teen Librarian Steve Zampino. “They thought it would be a good way to raise funds for the library.” There’s an extra incentive to accumulate pledges. The teen who brings in the greatest amount will receive a $50 gift card from Stamford Town Center.

The read-in is the latest in a variety of fundraising efforts for the library, which has called on community support in light of decreased city funding for the current fiscal year. To cut costs, library administrators have reduced hours and secured staff concessions, among other measures.

Teens who wish to sign up for the read-in should contact Barbara Klipper at 3.

What do you think about the read-in idea? Is it a good way to help raise funds for the library?