Mercer County Students Market Books to Peers During “Bookapolooza” at Concord University
For Immediate Release
February 19, 2026
Mercer County Students Market Books to Peers During “Bookapolooza” at Concord University
Athens, W.Va. – Mercer County ninth and tenth grade students took part in an engaging, student-designed learning experience today during Bookapolooza, an interactive showcase hosted by GEAR UP Southern West Virginia (GEAR UP SWV) at Concord University.
Rather than attending a traditional field trip, students participated in a dynamic college campus-based event featuring 60 peer-created presentations and displays. Student presenters researched, designed, and built interactive exhibits centered around books they selected and read, but with a competitive twist.
During Bookapolooza, students weren’t just presenting projects; they were marketing their books to their peers. Each presenter worked to creatively “sell” their book through hands-on demonstrations, visual displays, and persuasive presentations designed to spark interest and curiosity.
As students rotated through the interactive showcase, they asked questions, explored exhibits, and evaluated which book intrigued them most. At the conclusion of the event, participating students selected the book they were most interested in reading — reinforcing both engagement and ownership in the learning process. The books that the students select will be provided by GEAR UP SWV.
Students from the following Mercer County high schools participated:
- Bluefield High School
- Montcalm High School
- Princeton Senior High School
- PikeView High School
Judges also selected eight presentations as winners. Those selected won prizes such as entire book sets. By bringing students onto a college campus, Bookapolooza strengthened a college-going culture while celebrating creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking. The event highlighted reading as an active, student-driven experience rather than a passive assignment.
“Events like Bookapolooza show students that learning can be exciting, creative, and meaningful,” said Sheila Womack, GEAR UP SWV Director. “It also allows them to experience a college environment while celebrating their own work and accomplishments.”
For more information about the Bookapolooza, please contact Gail Webb, GEAR UP SWV Local Coordinator, Mercer County, at (276) 970-0815 or [email protected]. (304) 929-5471.
About GEAR UP SWV: GEAR UP Southern West Virginia (GEAR UP SWV) prepares students for success and careers after high school by providing tools, support, and real-world experiences. Serving the classes of 2028 and 2029 in Mercer, Monroe, Raleigh, Summers, and Wyoming counties’ public schools, GEAR UP SWV also works with teachers, administrators, and families to strengthen the entire educational community.
GEAR UP SWV is a $20.3 million, 50% cost-share program led by Concord University in partnership with New River Community and Technical College. This program is part of the national Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP) initiative, funded by the U.S. Department of Education.
The contents of this publication were developed under a grant from the U.S. Department of Education. However, the contents do not necessarily represent the policy of the U.S. Department of Education, and endorsement by the Federal Government should not be assumed.
Learn more at GEARUPSWV.org or by following GEAR UP SWV on social media.
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