6 Ways To Celebrate Read Across America
Kick off National Reading Month with these local library events that celebrate and encourage your kids’ love of books.
March begins National Reading Month, which kicks off with Read Across America Day on March 2. Though this national celebration of books, established in 1998 by the National Education Association (NEA), takes place on Dr. Seuss’s birthday, it’s no longer directly associated with the famous children’s book author. Since 2019, the campaign has diversified to encourage little ones to read books beyond just Cat in the Hat and Green Eggs & Ham et. al.
Many public schools in our towns, such as Hackensack, will be holding school or district-wide events for Read Across America Day. But here are some other upcoming events at Bergen libraries, either dedicated to Dr. Seuss or to books in general, at which you can join in on the fun and encourage your kiddos to do more reading:
- March 1, 2 and 3, 3:30–4:45 p.m. Join one of three sessions at the Paramus Public Library Reid Branch to celebrate Read Across America. There’s something for everyone—kids in grades Pre-K up to 8th grade are encouraged to attend.
- March 2, 11 a.m.–7 p.m. The Palisades Park Public Library will be celebrating by giving out special Horton kindness bracelet craft kits. Patrons are encouraged to pick up their favorite Dr. Seuss book while they’re there.
- March 2, 4–4:30 p.m. Northvale parents can bring their kids in grade K-5 to Northvale Public Library, where they’ll enjoy a Dr. Seuss-themed craft.
- March 2, 4–4:45 p.m. Midland Park Memorial Library hosts kids’ story time and book-related activities weekly, but this session is extra special since it happens to fall out on Read Across America Day.
- March 2, 6–7 p.m. Babies, toddlers and kids up to grade 3 will enjoy this hour-long Read Across America event at Hackensack’s Johnson Public Library featuring “diverse books” and fun activities such as crafts and games. It’ll be held indoors in the auditorium—masks are required for ages 2 and up.
- March 2, 6-6:30 p.m. Kiddos in grades 2–4 can join the Kids Corner Book Club at Ridgefield Park Public Library, where they’ll discuss that month’s specific chapter book (both virtually and in-person) and then be given the opportunity to blog about it. The March book club read is The Familiars by Adam Jay Epstein.
If you can’t make any of the above events and/or want to continue the reading party at home, check out nea.org, where you’ll find tons of tips on how to encourage your young readers, download or order free books and resources and more.
How is your town celebrating Read Across America Day? Let us know on Instagram @bergenmagnj!
