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Editorial: Read On
Have some fun this summer
Some analysts predict that the rapid increase in use of personal, hand-held electronic devices somehow bodes ill for our reading skills and even our ability to speak well.
One of the more humorous TV commercials these days, for example, has a mother frustrated by her daughter’s insistence on speaking in text-message language.
You just can’t get around having to read it.
Moreover, most of us find that the more important documents with which we must deal in life — like college applications, SATs and books - simply have to be read.
Virtually every good-paying job, from auto mechanic to astrophysicist, requires the ability to read, whether instructional manuals, textbooks or general literature.
For better or worse, the federal No Child Left Behind Act signed by President Bush has helped shift the focus of public school curricula to reading and mathematics, two of the subjects in which children must pass standard tests.
Summer reading programs at public libraries also play a key role in helping youth developing their ability to read well - meaning, critically and thoughtfully.
Beginning June 5, for example, a number of libraries, such as those in McKinney, Plano, Frisco and Lewisville, will offer several weeks worth of reading-related activities, under the themes of “Sail Away with Books” for the first five grades and “Crash at Your Library” for older youth.
Some programs will also include prizes donated by local businesses, including movie and museum tickets and food coupons.
The McKinney library is having an adult reading program in conjunction with the youth program.
In Lewisville, librarians have moved to spice up the program with entertainment on registration day, including free magic shows.
Everyone knows how academic skills lag a bit over summer vacation. Library reading programs provide a useful and enjoyable way of keeping up.
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