Library brings back Read Across Town

Amy Heckethorn takes her turn sharing her love of books with children at the mall in a Read Across America event many years ago. This year, McIver's Grant Library will bring back the community event by hosting Read Across Town, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., on Tuesday, March 2. Reading stops include the library, Security Bank and First South Bank, with a birthday party for Dr. Seuss planned in the fellowship hall of First Baptist Church. Refreshments, balloons, clowns, face painting and a possible visit from the Cat in the Hat, himself, are on the agenda. Opening ceremonies begin in the library at 5:30 p.m. [Click to enlarge]

To pick up a book and read with a child.

You're never too busy, too cool or too hot,

To pick up a book and share what you've got.

In schools and communities,

Let's gather around,

Let's pick up a book,

Let's pass it around.

There are kids all around you,

Kids who will need

Someone to hug,

Someone to read.

Come join us March 2nd

Your own special way

and make this America's

Read to Kids Day.

(courtesy of NEA Read Across America)

On Tuesday, March 2, McIver's Grant Public Library will celebrate all things Seuss with its resurrection of the National Education Association's Read Across Town.

The event, which began in 1996 at the Dyersburg Mall, was a fond tradition for residents of the community before it was passed to the local school systems to celebrate inhouse.

This year, officials at McIver's Grant Public Library will bring the celebration back to the community and the downtown area with an event that combines the wacky and whimsical world of Dr. Seuss with the fun of an old-fashioned birthday celebration.

Opening ceremonies will begin at the library at 5:30 p.m., with children of all ages free to visit reading sites at the library, Security Bank and First South Bank. Each site will feature seven residents, reading a total of 21 books. A birthday celebration for Dr. Seuss will also take place in the fellowship hall of First Baptist Church during the event. Refreshments, balloons, clowns, face painting and a possible visit from the Grinch or the Cat in the Hat, himself, are planned, as well.

A traffic guard will be set up at the intersection to ensure a safe crossing for families attending the event.

Local residents signed up to read include Nancy Deere, Lou Newbill and Emily Coleman.