Library of Michigan Targets Early Childhood Literacy with Statewide 'Michigan Reads!' Program

Michigan Author Leslie Helakoski's 'Big Chickens' Helps Kids Relate to Challenge of Overcoming Fears

Aug. 22, 2007 -- The Library of Michigan is set to launch Michigan Reads!, the one-state, one-children's-book program devoted to boosting early childhood literacy. The program is slated for fall 2007. The Library of Michigan encourages the reading of "Big Chickens" - by Michigan author Leslie Helakoski - across the state during the month of September. "Big Chickens" follows four timid chickens on a humorous romp through the woods, as they manage to overcome obstacles and ultimately conquer their fears.

State Librarian Nancy Robertson recognized Target as the sole sponsor of the 2007 Michigan Reads! Program, with additional support from the Library of Michigan Foundation. The Library of Michigan has distributed a kit to public libraries, elementary schools, Head Start and Michigan School Readiness programs, that includes a copy of "Big Chickens" along with a programming guide full of ideas and sample programs, information on early childhood literacy, a poster and more. The Library of Michigan will also present author visits to libraries and schools around the state. For more information, visit www.michigan.gov/michiganreads .

Michigan Reads! officially kicks off Saturday, Aug. 25, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Target Children's Book Festival, presented by the Detroit Free Press, at Kensington Metropark near Milford/Brighton. The free event will feature readings, storytelling, demonstrations, appearances by national and local authors and story characters, activity workshops and book-related merchandise. "Big Chickens" author Helakoski and illustrator Henry Cole will both be on hand at the festival to "talk chicken" with children and adult fans alike.

"We couldn't ask for a better partner than Target - with its widely recognized commitment to early childhood literacy - in our efforts to promote reading to Michigan's youngest citizens," said Robertson. "Inspiring a love of reading is a crucial part in laying the groundwork for later educational success. With Target's support, the Library of Michigan is able to spread the word about Michigan Reads! across the state. We're thrilled to have their support."

"Target recognizes the integral role reading plays in shaping a child's future, which is why we're proud to partner with the Library of Michigan on Michigan Reads!," said Laysha Ward, vice president, community relations, Target. "The launch of the program at the Target Children's Book Festival is a great way to bring 'Big Chickens' to life and stimulate children's interest in reading."

Leslie Helakoski, a resident of Lawton, will visit libraries and schools around the state as part of Michigan Reads!, which will take place during Library Card Sign-Up Month in September. "I am very honored that 'Big Chickens' was chosen and can't wait to be part of the program," she said. "For a book about fear, this book sure has been a lot of fun."

For more information about this book and author Leslie Helakoski, visit www.helakoskibooks.com .

Michigan Reads! began in 2004 as a new approach to the community-wide, "one book" programs gaining popularity throughout the country. While most of these efforts focus on adults, Michigan Reads! is unique in that it features a book that young children will enjoy, encouraging parents, grandparents, caregivers, older siblings and volunteers to read to their younger family members.

The program aims to promote the value and benefits of reading early and often to children, to encourage family bonding through reading and to increase awareness and usage of Michigan's libraries as excellent resources for learning. Since 2004, the Michigan Reads! program has evolved and now, with the help of the Michigan Department of Education, the 2007 program reaches out to include children through second grade in schools statewide.

The Library of Michigan is part of the Department of History, Arts and Libraries. Dedicated to enriching quality of life and strengthening the economy by providing access to information, preserving and promoting Michigan's heritage and fostering cultural creativity, the department also includes the Mackinac Island State Park Commission, the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs, the Michigan Film Office and the Michigan Historical Center. For more information, visit www.michigan.gov/hal .

Minneapolis-based Target serves guests at 1,537 stores in 47 states nationwide by delivering today's best retail trends at affordable prices. Target is committed to providing guests with great design through innovative products, in-store experiences and community partnerships. Whether visiting a Target store or shopping online at Target.com, guests enjoy a fun and convenient shopping experience with access to thousands of unique and highly differentiated items. Target (NYSE:TGT) gives more than $3 million a week to its local communities through grants and special programs. Since opening its first store in 1962, Target has partnered with nonprofit organizations, guests and team members to help meet community needs.

Source: Michigan Department of History, Arts and Libraries

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