FIRST LADY HOSTS FAMILY READING HOUR

SPRINGFIELD -- First Lady Lura Lynn Ryan hosted several families at the Executive Mansion to celebrate National Family Literacy Day and promote Gov. Ryan's "Illinois Reads" initiative with a special story time.

"Reading is a basic tool for literacy, opportunity and lifelong learning," said Mrs. Ryan. "Governor Ryan's 'Illinois Reads' provides a framework for all reading and literacy-related initiatives in Illinois, bringing everyone together for a unified effort."

Gov. and Mrs. Ryan are steadfast in their effort to improve literacy statewide. In celebration of National Family Literacy Day in Illinois, several family literacy programs were invited to enjoy the book collection at the Executive Mansion Library. The Illinois Library Association had previously donated a collection of children's books to the First Family and those books were added to the collection at the Executive Mansion library.

The literacy program participants included the Taylorville, Virden, Nokomis, and Morrisville Pre-kindergarten programs. The participating families are all part of the family literacy program through Lincoln Land Community College's TEAL (Training and Education for Adult Learners) program.

"Family Literacy Day is a wonderful opportunity for everyone to come together and discover the joy of reading," said Mrs. Ryan.

The National Center for Family Literacy identifies National Family Literacy Day as "a time to celebrate the impact parents have on their child's learning and the foundation of the family in education."