Secretary of State and State Librarian Jesse White is encouraging families in Illinois to read together Thursday, Nov. 16, for Illinois’ annual Family Reading Night. The Illinois Library Association’s iREAD theme is “Reading by Design” with Little Elliot continues to serve as the theme. Thousands of colorful posters and bookmarks have been distributed by the Illinois State Library to libraries, schools and literacy programs across the state to promote Family Reading Night events.
“This is a night when families are urged to turn off televisions, computers, phones, video games and other electronic devices and spend time reading together,” White said. “Reading together creates a positive learning environment and helps children develop language skills, comprehension and a love for reading that can last a lifetime.”
This is the 26th year that the Secretary of State’s office has sponsored Family Reading Night. All events are free and open to the public. Contact your local library for events taking place in your community. Some Family Reading Night events include:
· Addison Public Library Join Secretary of State and State Librarian Jesse White as he donates books to children on behalf of the Illinois Literacy Foundation. There will also be stories, snacks and crafts from 6:30 p.m. to 7:15 p.m.
· Carbondale Public Library Hear stories about Pinkalicious and have a photo taken with her. There will be prizes, refreshments and more starting at 6 p.m.
· Mahomet Public Library The library will host story time, songs, games and craft projects from 6:30 p.m. to 7:15 p.m.
· Mt. Morris Public Library There will be special guest readers and a chance to learn about and play with all the new Science Technology Engineering Arts Mathematics (STEAM) materials at the library. The evening will also include creating tree decorations for the Library Bandshell Christmas Tree.
· Philo Public Library District Enjoy a reading and pajama party. Kids can wear their pajamas and bring their favorite bedtime buddy to listen to special guests read bedtime stories. People from the community will read stories and members of Wendy Carmien’s speech group will also be performing. A light bedtime snack will be served. The program will take place from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. For more information about Family Reading Night, go to: https://www.cyberdriveillinois.com/departments/library/center_for_the_book/frn.html or contact Bonnie Matheis, coordinator of the Illinois Center for the Book, at [email protected].
