WHEREAS, children are born ready to learn and are curious by nature; and

        WHEREAS, reading is the key to learning and the foundation for future success; and

        WHEREAS, research shows that infants and children who are read to are more enthusiastic about reading, are more successful in school, are better readers, and are more likely to remain lifelong readers; and

        WHEREAS, parents are their child’s first teacher, preparing their child to succeed in school; and

        WHEREAS, libraries are the gateway to learning and information through print and digital resources; and

        WHEREAS, libraries provide families with the tools they need to give their young children a jump start on reading and lifelong learning; and

        WHEREAS, libraries have programs and materials which help parents nurture their child’s curiosity and joy of learning; and

        WHEREAS, children need reading role models; and

        WHEREAS, reading together is a great way for parents and children to converse and connect; and

        WHEREAS, schools, libraries and community organizations across the State have planned activities to celebrate Idaho Family Reading Week;

        NOW, THEREFORE, I, JAMES E. RISCH, Governor of the State of Idaho do hereby proclaim the week of November 12^th through 18^th, 2006 as

IDAHO FAMILY READING WEEK

and call upon all parents to read aloud to their children every day and to visit their local public library for information and materials to help with reading.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused to be affixed the Great Seal of the State of Idaho at the Capitol in Boise on this 15th day of November in the year of our Lord two-thousand and six and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred thirty-first and of the Statehood of Idaho the one hundred seventeenth.

BEN YSURSA
SECRETARY OF STATE