Senator O'Brien, librarians discuss summer reading initiatives, promote Senate's "NYRead.com" tool

PITTSFORD, N.Y. – Today, Senator Ted O'Brien encouraged families of the 55th Senate district to participate in the State Senate's summer reading program, available at "NYRead.com." This Senate site tracks books read by youth in the district and makes age-appropriate suggestions based on what other students throughout the state are reading. On NYRead.com, parents can create accounts for their children and log all of their reading throughout the summer. Top readers from throughout the district will be recognized by the Senator later this year.

"As a parent, I know the value and necessity of keeping young people engaged over the summer months. The NYRead.com program provides families with an interactive way to encourage continued scholastic activities during the school break," Senator O'Brien said. "As we work to keep Upstate New York a great place to work, live and raise a family, it is vital that we are also providing our future generations with the tools needed to be the future leaders of our great state."

Senator O'Brien was joined by a number of local librarians who discussed both why summer reading is so important for developing young minds and the many excellent resources and programs available through their libraries and systems:

Cassie Guthrie, Director of the Pioneer Library System:

“Studies clearly show that access to books during the summer prevents a drastic loss in reading skill - especially for kids in need. Last summer, Pioneer libraries saw a 15 percent increase in the number of kids participating in summer reading programs. This can be attributed to the innovative and exciting literacy activities that our dedicated librarians put together for the summer months."

Elly Dawson, Director of the Victor Library:

“Among the many simple things you can do to raise a child who loves to read include making library visits a routine and not being afraid to adjust your expectations upward. Libraries and their staff people are a key part to supporting ‘the possibilities’ for children and the entire community.”

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Sen. O’Brien represents the 55th district in the Senate, which is made up of the eastern half of Monroe County and the western half of Ontario County, including much of the city of Rochester.

The Pioneer Library System offers support and services to 42 mostly small and rural libraries in Ontario, Wayne, Wyoming and Livingston counties. Within the 55th Senate District, they work with libraries in Allens Hill, Bloomfield, Bristol, Honeoye, Naples and Victor.

The Monroe County Library System includes 12 libraries in the City of Rochester and those in 19 towns surrounding the city.

Media contact:

Thomas J. Morrisey
Communications Director
office: (585) 218-0034
e-mail: tjmorris@nysenate.gov