Saturday’s Literacy Festival explores the magic of reading

An event this weekend invites young readers to dress as their favorite book character or to take a moment to read to their favorite farm animal, all a part of exploring the magic of books and reading.

The 12th annual Bartholomew Reads Literacy Festival is Saturday, offering families an opportunity just how many ways there are to help kids learn to love books.

The free event will be noon to 3 p.m. at Central Middle School, 725 Seventh St., featuring dozens of booths filled with reading and literacy activities for children and families.

Sponsored by NTN Driveshaft, a committee of local volunteers on the Bartholomew Literacy Task Force organize the event each year, part of an effort to increase literacy in the community.

The task force also organizes and supports the Book Buddies program, “Put Your Nose in a Book Day,” Dr. Seuss’ Birthday/Read Across America and the Community Book Read.

For more on this story, see Friday’s Republic.