PEDALING TOWARDS LITERACY JewelRide & Edwardsville Public Library: Books for Bikes 2026
At JewelRide, our mission has always been to move people toward what matters. This April, we were thrilled to see that mission take a literary turn as we gathered at the Edwardsville Public Library for the annual Books for Bikes raffle drawing.
By the Numbers: A Community of Readers
The 2026 challenge saw an incredible turnout from our local youth. From kindergarteners discovering their first stories to eighth graders diving into complex novels, the statistics from this year’s challenge are nothing short of inspiring:
A Partnership for Healthy Minds and Bodies
On April 18th, the excitement was palpable as the raffle names were drawn. Representing the JewelRide team were Tapiwa Mupereki, Rutendo Faith Nkomo-Mupereki, and Jennifer Bagwell. We were joined by Megan Prueter of the Edwardsville Public Library, Dianne Todd of Thompson Flaherty, and Julie Manley of BJ’s Printables. Ten lucky readers had their names drawn, earning them a brand-new bicycle from Academy Sports and Outdoors valued at $160. While the winners weren’t present for the drawing, we can only imagine the excitement as the library begins reaching out to the families of these dedicated readers.
“Promoting reading and physical activity is at the core of a healthy community. We are honored to partner with the library to ensure that local children stay active in both mind and body.”
— Tapiwa Mupereki, Co-Founder of JewelRide
National Recognition: Books for Bikes on MSN
Our collaboration with the Edwardsville Public Library and local sponsors was featured on MSN, highlighting how ten local children—including seven-year-old Eddie Turner—put their “pedal to the page” to win new bikes. This coverage underscores the importance of community-led programs that reward literacy and physical activity.
For us at JewelRide, seeing these kids’ excitement is just the beginning. Whether it is a child on a new bike or a senior heading to a doctor’s appointment, mobility is the heartbeat of a healthy life – read about us on MSN News!
