On Tuesday, May 15, nearly 8,000 books will be distributed to first-graders at Wyoming Reads literacy celebrations held in each of the state’s 23 counties.
The Wyoming State Library’s Central Acquisitions Program acquires these books at discounts up to 40 percent, stretching precious dollars so more books can be delivered to grateful young readers.
Earlier this year, children had the opportunity to choose which book they would like to receive from the following options:
- Penguin Day: A Family Story by Nic Bishop
- Max and Bird by Ed Vere
- Those Darn Squirrels and the Cat Next Door by Adam Rubin
- The Giant Jumperee by Julia Donaldson
- Little Red Riding Sheep by Linda Ravin
- Be Quiet! by Ryan T. Higgins
Wyoming Reads celebrations focus on the joy of reading, highlighted by each child receiving a hardback book with their name printed inside the cover, donated by the Sue Jorgensen Library Foundation.
John Jorgensen established the Sue Jorgensen Library Foundation in 1996 and founded the Casper Cares, Casper Reads festival to honor his late wife’s commitment to children and reading. The celebration was expanded statewide as Wyoming Reads in 2006.
“Sue was always very dedicated to children and to literacy,” says John. “She believed that literacy was the foundation for everything in life.” That vision continues to fuel this community literacy initiative.
Partners in this year’s Wyoming Reads celebration include the Tonkin Foundation, McMurry Foundation, Casper Rotary Club, Natrona County Recreation Joint Powers Board, Friends of the Natrona County Library, Casper Kiwanis Club, and a number of generous individuals.