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Lt. Gov. Morales Joins DCA, State Libraries in Pushing Summer Reading Program to Kids Across New Mexico

June 26th, 2020

SANTA FE – The New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs and the New Mexico State Library have enlisted the help of Lt. Gov. Howie Morales in promoting the importance of reading for children.  

The Lieutenant Governor will read the children’s book “The Three Little Javelinas,” written by Susan Lowell and illustrated by Jim Harris, courtesy of the Silver City Public Library, during a Facebook Premiere event at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, June 30, as part of the statewide summer reading program that kicked off earlier this month. To access the event, visit www.facebook.com/events/304021257445512/.

"I encourage parents across New Mexico to make reading throughout the rest of this summer a top priority for their children – it’s so important!" said Lt. Gov. Morales. "When school is out for the summer and kids don’t have a lot of structure in their days – especially now – our children don’t spend enough time reading. Reading every day is fun, and it will help maintain their skills, preparing them for when school returns.

"Our local libraries are running summer reading programs that are invaluable to parents. Visit your library with your children often – they are all offering great prizes for readers, challenges, recognition, and super educational online events. This summer stay in close touch and use our excellent libraries to benefit the next generations of New Mexicans."

More than 100 public libraries from the across state are taking part in this year’s summer reading program, which began on June 1. Events and prizes for those who have logged their reading time have been generously sponsored by the New Mexico Library Foundation. This year’s theme is “Imagine Your Story.”

"The summer reading program promotes healthy reading habits, encourages the use of imagination, and prevents what is commonly referred to as the summer slide," said DCA Cabinet Secretary Debra Garcia y Griego. "We’re pleased that we are able to offer all New Mexicans an opportunity to participate in this valuable experience."

Libraries that are closed to the public this summer have implemented a virtual reading program with contactless curbside pickup service. Additionally, the State Library has made e-books available until August for state residents to borrow. The statewide summer reading program is expected to run until July 31.

According to a survey conducted by the State Library following last year’s summer reading program, 81.34% of parents and/or guardians reported that their children’s amount of reading time increased, and nearly 80% said their children’s enjoyment of reading increased. 

For reading logs, a map of participating public library systems, and information on other program-related events, please visit https://summerreading.nmculture.org. 

The summer reading program is funded in part by a grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) administered by the State of New Mexico through the New Mexico State Library, a division of the New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs.

About the New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs

Created in 1978 by the New Mexico Legislature, the Department of Cultural Affairs (DCA) is New Mexico’s cultural steward, charged with preserving and showcasing the state’s cultural riches. With its eight museums, seven historic sites, arts, archaeology, historic preservation, and library programs, the DCA is one of the largest and most diverse state cultural agencies in the nation. Together, the facilities, programs, and services of the Department support a $5.6 billion cultural industry in New Mexico. 

Events, news releases, and images related to activities in divisions of the DCA can be accessed at media.newmexicoculture.org.

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