Nov. 15, 2005

The Library of Michigan today announced the five finalists for the 2006 "Michigan Reads!" one-state, one-preschool-book program, set for March 2006, and invited preschoolers and book lovers of all ages to cast their votes now through Dec. 9.  People can take part in the voting in one of two ways:  by casting their ballots online at www.michigan.gov/michiganreads or by voting in person with a paper ballot at their local Michigan public libraries.  The book which earns the most votes will be announced in mid-December.

The five books on the 2006 Michigan Reads! ballot are:

• "Bed Hogs" by Kelly DiPucchio
• "Imogene's Antlers" by David Small
• "In the Small, Small Pond" by Denise Fleming
• "Sheep in a Jeep" by Nancy Shaw
• "Stranger in the Woods" by Carl Sams II and Jean Stoick

"Reading early and often to children is one of the most important things parents and caregivers can do," said State Librarian Nancy Robertson.  "Libraries have been creating collective reading experiences and programs for many years.  'Michigan Reads!' is a great way to invite the community into the library to see firsthand not only the value of such early-literacy family programs, but to also see that the local library is the place to go for quality books, programs and staff expertise that help set the stage for later school success."

Michigan Reads! was launched in 2004 by the Library of Michigan in partnership with the Michigan Center for the Book to promote the value and benefits of reading early and often to preschoolers; to encourage family bonding through reading; and to increase awareness and usage of Michigan's hundreds of public libraries.  This year, the program is sponsored by Brogan & Partners, Michigan Education Savings Program, Michigan Education Trust and the Library of Michigan Foundation.

The Library of Michigan is part of the Department of History, Arts and Libraries, which also includes the Mackinac Island State Park Commission, the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs, the Michigan Film Office and the Michigan Historical Center.

Read more press releases from the Department of History, Arts and Libraries.