At Memphis Striving Readers, we are committed to fostering literacy in our community. Whether you are a parent, volunteer, or supporter, there are numerous ways to connect with us and contribute to our mission.
If you have questions, need assistance, or want to learn more about our programs, please don't hesitate to reach out. We are always ready to help you.
Join us in our efforts to improve literacy in Memphis through:
- Tutoring programs for children and adults
- Family reading nights that encourage reading together
- Volunteer training sessions for those looking to make a difference
Stay updated on our latest events and initiatives by following us on social media or subscribing to our newsletter. Together, we can make a positive impact on literacy in our community.
Choosing a Camera Strap for Documenting Reading Events
The title of this page points to camera straps, and that topic connects more closely to community literacy work than it might seem. Family reading nights, tutoring celebrations and volunteer training days are moments many programs want to capture, whether for a newsletter, a thank-you note to supporters or a simple record of how a season went. A volunteer who carries a camera for a full evening quickly learns that the strap matters as much as the lens.
What to look for
- Comfort over long sessions: A wider, padded neck or shoulder strap spreads the weight better than a thin factory strap, which helps when you are on your feet for two or three hours.
- Cross-body or sling styles: These keep the camera at your hip and leave your hands free to pass out books, help a child find a seat or set up a table.
- Wrist straps for small cameras: For compact cameras or phones, a wrist loop is light and quick, though it offers less security in a crowded room.
- Quick-release connectors: Detachable clips make it easy to switch between a neck strap and a wrist strap, or to hand the camera to another volunteer.
- Quiet hardware: Metal buckles that clink can distract during a read-aloud. Fabric or coated fittings stay quieter.
Photographing responsibly
Gear is only part of the picture. When events involve children and families, always ask for permission before taking or sharing photos, follow any consent forms the program uses and avoid posting images that show names, schools or locations without agreement. Candid shots of hands turning pages or a stack of well-loved books often tell the story just as well as faces do.
If you would like to help capture moments at our events, our volunteer page explains how to get involved, and you can learn more about the gatherings themselves on our programs page.
Also on this site: Events