November 13-19 "Turn Off The Tv & Tune Into Reading" Week

Boston - Governor Paul Cellucci, Lt. Governor Jane Swift and Commissioner of Education David P. Driscoll announced today that November 13-19 is "Turn Off the TV & Tune Into Reading" week in Massachusetts.

Governor Cellucci said, "We know a child's ability to read is key to his or her success in school and later as a working adult. Reading is a great way for parents and their children to learn and work together toward success in school."

Lt. Governor Swift said, "There is nothing more important than reading. We invite everyone to join local libraries and schools and us for a week of celebrating the joys of reading by turning off TV's and video games and tuning in to reading."

This is the first year that Massachusetts is participating statewide in National Children's Book Week, sponsored annually by the Children’s Book Council (CBC). The national theme for this year’s events is "Fuel Your Mind," and is designed for children of all ages and abilities.

Commissioner Driscoll added, "We hope you will promote this event this month which has also been designated by Governor Cellucci as Massachusetts Family Literacy Month. We encourage everyone -- grownups and children -- to turn off the TV’s and video games at least one day or more during the week of November 13, and to pick up a book or newspaper, instead."

At the CBC website, there are dozens of creative and fun ideas for small- or large-scale activities that parents, older sisters and brothers, librarians, teachers, neighbors, churches, temples and business partners can use. Colorful and educational kits are available, as well.

Local schools and libraries are celebrating the week of November 13 by offering entertaining and educational events. Puppet and marionette shows, read-a-thons, and read-alongs, dining out on books, TV turn-offs or other activities are being held in a number of towns including Reading, Yarmouth, Wareham, Norwell, Bourne, Chelsea, Everett and Chelmsford.

For more information on "Turn Off the TV & Tune Into Reading" week in Massachusetts, visit the CBC website or call your local school or library, and for other information on literacy programs, visit the Department of Education website