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November 8, 2004

Randy Nehrt
Pat McGuckin

White Announces Family Reading Night Celebration Set for Nov. 18

SPRINGFIELD — Secretary of State and State Librarian Jesse White is encouraging Illinois families to make time to read together during the evening of Thursday, November 18th to celebrate the Secretary of State's annual Family Reading Night.

"Since 1992, the Secretary of State's office has worked with libraries, schools, educational associations, publishers, literacy programs, community organizations and others to sponsor Family Reading Night," White said. "This event is an evening where families are encouraged to shut off the television, computers, video games and other forms of recreation and entertainment to read together. One of the best gifts an adult can give a child is to spend time together reading. An adult who makes time to read to a child sends a strong, loving and powerful message that they care about that child. Children from families who read together are also better prepared for success in school.

"Reading together strengthens families, creates a positive environment for learning, and instills a love for reading among our children. I hope all Illinois families will make time November 18th to read together and celebrate the special joy and unity that comes from family reading."

White said the target audience for Family Reading Night is pre-kindergarten to 6th grade children and their families. The theme for this year's Family Reading Night is "Picture the Magic of Reading." The Illinois State Library distributed colorful Family Reading Night posters and bookmarks to more than 2,000 public libraries, school libraries, literacy programs and other agencies to promote and celebrate the event.

Family Reading Night celebrations will take place throughout Illinois. In previous years, celebrants have held contests where children win prizes, and parades where children dress up as characters from popular books. In some communities local celebrities read to children, and many grandparents participate in Family Reading Night as well.

"Reading can enrich and enhance all of our lives, and I commend all adults who take the time to regularly read to children," said White. "Family Reading Night is a special way to spotlight the benefits of reading, and I look forward to another successful evening November 18th."