Libraries serve our nation and its citizens in two primary ways: by preserving our common culture, and by nurturing and sustaining democracy itself. A particular democratic function of libraries is fostering reading. As noted in two reports recently issued by the U.S. Department of Education, "What Works" and "First Lessons," it is imperative to…

Reports on a study of the effects of participation in public library summer reading programs on children's reading skills. Results on a standardized test administered to 279 students in grades 1-5 in May and September are analyzed and compared for participants and nonparticipants in the summer reading program. (MES)

Intended to challenge readers of all ages to celebrate the wonder of words arranged on the printed page, this book contains descriptions of activities that have been highly successful in drawing children into literacy and keeping them there. The 64 activities presented in the book can be performed in the home, at school, in the library, around…

This bibliography lists books appropriate for first and second graders and other children just beginning to exercise some reading skills. Most of the books listed have a controlled vocabulary, but textbooks are not included. Each entry includes author, title, publisher, publication date, and price. Approximately 175 books are listed in…

Noting that coupling stories and trains is an arrangement that appeals to nearly everyone and that building on this foundation provides an excellent theme for summer reading fun, this planning and activity guide offers suggestions to help librarians develop a highly motivating summer reading program. The first section of the guide discusses…

This ERIC Digest is intended to help eligible school library personnel write an effective proposal for the "Improving Literacy Through School Libraries" (LSL) grant program, which provides funding for high-need K-12 school library programs to improve reading achievement by providing students with increased access to school library…

A program designed by the Palatine (Illinois) Public Library to help children reading below grade level included weekly storytimes in the classrooms, parent/child programs in the library, and cable television programs on storytelling and illiteracy. Increased attention spans, higher levels of cooperation, and more positive attitudes toward reading…

A low-cost reading program at De Anza Junior High School, Ontario, California, designed to motivate reluctant junior high school readers and to develop an early interest in books in preschool children is described. A background history of the Preschool Story Hour is given and sources of books are suggested. Junior high students who may be…