December 22, 2003

State Librarian Christie Pearson Brandau today recognized several sponsors and partners whose early support has helped energize the Michigan Reads! One State, One Preschool Book initiative. 

Michigan Reads! sponsors, whose donations are used for promotion, programming and author visits, include:
 

• Genesee District Library - Genesee County
• Library of Michigan Foundation - Lansing
• Michigan Center for the Book - Lansing
• Thomson Gale - Farmington Hills

Partners, who are collaborating with the Library of Michigan to plan events or provide services in support of the program, include:
 

• Everyone Read - Grand Rapids
• Grace A Dow Memorial Library - Midland
• Grand Rapids Public Library - Grand Rapids
• Kent District Library - Kent County
• Michigan Humanities Council - Lansing
• WKAR - East Lansing 
• WOOD-TV Channel 8 - Grand Rapids

"We're so grateful to our Michigan Reads! sponsors and partners, whose support and collaboration is critical in our efforts to highlight the importance of reading and sharing books with preschool-age children," said State Librarian Christie Pearson Brandau.  "We urge anyone who has a stake in the education of Michigan's youngest citizens to get involved as well."

By focusing on a single book, encouraging a collective reading experience, and partnering with learning communities and organizations throughout the state, Michigan Reads! aims to focus public interest and awareness on books, reading and early childhood literacy.  The program encourages parents, caregivers, librarians and educators across the state to join in reading the book "Barnyard Song" by Rhonda Gowler Greene to preschool children during the period of April 18-30, 2004.  An online poll determined "Barnyard Song" as the featured title for Michigan Reads!

Coordinated by the Library of Michigan in cooperation with libraries around the state, Michigan Reads! also recognizes the vital role of public libraries, which provide access to quality books, programs and services that lay the foundation for reading and school success.

Governor Jennifer Granholm serves as the honorary chair of Michigan Reads! 2004.  The program ties in with Governor Granholm's Great Start initiative, which encourages all parents and caregivers to read to children at least 30 minutes a day. 

To learn more about Michigan Reads! partnering and sponsorship opportunities, contact michiganreads@michigan.gov.  For current information about the program and how to get involved, please visit www.michigan.gov/hal or contact your local library.

The Library of Michigan - this year celebrating 175 years as Michigan's official state library agency - is part of the Department of History, Arts and Libraries.  Dedicated to enriching the quality of life for Michigan residents by providing access to information, preserving and promoting Michigan's heritage and fostering cultural creativity, the department 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.