SENATOR NOZZOLIO URGES LOCAL CHILDREN TO EXPLORE THROUGH SUMMERTIME READING

ALBANY – State Senator Mike Nozzolio wants students to have fun reading and keep learning this summer by participating in the 2009 New York Statewide Summer Reading Program.

"Evidence shows that children who stop reading over summer vacation often fall behind when they return to school in September,” said Senator Nozzolio. "This program is designed to get children to realize the rewards of reading by encouraging them to exercise their imaginations and make reading a daily event this summer," said Senator Nozzolio.

Last year, more than 1.5 million youngsters took part in the Summer Reading Program. With resources and tools made available through the New York State Library, local public libraries will once again offer the program to their communities.

New York state history is featured in this year's summer reading program. Senator Nozzolio is urging youngsters and families to participate and explore New York's rich history through suggested reading lists and special library events.

Children, teens, parents, and caregivers can also log on to www.summerreadingnys.org for activities, games, links, information, and ideas to keep children reading all summer. For an overview of the New York Statewide Summer Reading Program and additional information, educators, parents, and caregivers can go to www.nysl.nysed.gov/libdev/summer.

"It is my hope that local school children take part in this program and use it as their passport to a world of learning and imagination," said Senator Nozzolio.   “Whether you are on vacation, at pool side or on the beach, bring a book with you and read. Read and learn about the things that fascinate you and don’t forget to let me know. We can never stop learning and I want to make sure that when school ends in June, the learning does not stop for our children."

Sen. Nozzolio said families can contact their local public library to register for the program.

The 2009 New York Statewide Summer Reading Program is made possible with Library Services and Technology Act funds awarded to the New York State Library by the Federal Institute of Museum and Library Services. The New York State Library is a program of the Office of Cultural Education in the New York State Education Department.

###