Library slated to take part in world record campaign

Friday, August 18, 2006

The Putnam County Public Library will be participating in a nationwide campaign to set the world record for the largest shared reading experience ever on Thursday, Aug. 24.

Beginning at 10 a.m., and continuing until 7 p.m., the library will have "The Little Engine That Could" read on the hour.

The library, in partnership with Jumpstart, supports the importance of early education, literacy development, and joins the campaign to share the powerful "I think I Can" message from the classic story.

PCPL Children's Librarian Suzanne Hall said, "Early learning experiences are crucial to the growth and development of young children.

"Jumpstart's Read for the Record provides opportunities for everyone in the United States to support quality early education and to engage in the powerful learning experiences that Jumpstart models in its classrooms every day," said Hall.

Read for the Record serves to raise awareness about the early education crisis, provide effective tools to address this crisis, and increase support for Jumpstart's important work.

Jumpstart, along with its partners Starbucks, Pearson, Penguin (USA), American Eagle, and the Corporation for National and Community Service, will further the national impact by encouraging all adults and teenagers to read the same book with young children.

In addition to the national campaign, Hall recommends the following ways for others to get involved and promote early education:

--Volunteer time to work with children and teachers at a school, community center, Head Start, or child care program.

--Support the creation of high quality preschool experiences in local communities, state, and across the country.

--Thank early childhood educators and others who play a vital role in preparing young children to succeed in school and beyond.

--Consider donating a book to one of the many at-risk children who have no books in their homes.

If any teenagers and adults who would like to volunteer to read to children after school or in the evening may contact Hall at 653-2755, ext. 121.

All participants in the campaign will receive a World Record Reader sticker and a chance to win a copy of "The Little Engine That Could."

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