Day promotes children's literacy

TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTHI) - Celebrations for National Read Across America Day continued this Saturday. It started 16 years ago in honor of Dr. Seuss’ birthday, which is March 2.
    
Vigo County Public Library's Holly Curtsinger thinks it's important for parents to take an active role in their children's education.

“A parent is a child's first teacher. Any influence that can start at home is a wonderful thing. We like to partner with those parents and give them materials and resources they need to be successful,” said Curtsinger.
    
The Vigo County Public Library partnered with Honey Creek Mall. This month, together, they're promoting literacy efforts.
    
Dr. Seuss' 109th birthday marks the 16th year of Read Across America.
    
The annual program is sponsored by the National Education Association
    
The goal of the event is to show America's children how important and fun reading can be.
    
Over 15 million high school graduates finished school reading below the basic level for the past 15 years.
    
And that's why Michael Menser thinks it's so important for him to help his community by participating in events like this.

"I'm volunteering to read to the community youngsters…Well, obviously, that's a big push in education now. And anytime that we can encourage and get kids excited about reading is a great opportunity,” said Menser, athletic director of Terre Haute North High School.
    
And that's the same reason Curtsinger says the library continues to partner with the community for the cause.

"That's a big concern for us. And we're really trying to let the public know about our early literacy initiatives. Events like this help to get the library's mission out into the public and let people know the resources we have available,” said Curtsinger.

The Storm Team 10’s Kevin Orpurt even joined in on the fun. Kevin read to students Saturday afternoon at the Honey Creek Mall.