JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – On Jacksonville’s Northside, the public library is hosting events attempting to get preschoolers to fall in love with reading.
Over 100 children attended the Highlands Regional Library for the first Preschool Palooza, which featured book giveaways, performances, and activities while also providing families with a chance to learn about preschool options.
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The event is part of the River City Readers program aimed at promoting reading and literacy among children.
Festivities included Mayor Donna Deegan rolling out the new River City Readers Bookmobile, which allowed preschool-aged children to receive books and backpacks.
Organizers believe events like these engage children with reading and set them up for future success, adding that the turnout was a great sign.
“This is us making an effort to connect to kids with the fun of reading,” said Tim Rogers, chief librarian and library director. “ The library doesn’t teach them to read, [it] teaches them that reading can be fun and that they can love it for the rest of their lives.”
Two more Preschool Palooza events are planned for May and June.