[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 155 (Friday, November 7, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2200]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    FIRST BOOKS: THE JOYS OF READING

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                            HON. BOB FILNER

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, November 5, 1997

  Mr. FILNER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a unique educational 
program--a partnership between the YMCA's Childcare Resource Service 
and KPBS Television in San Diego. The First Books program, part of the 
nationwide ready to learn campaign, will provide 200 free books each 
month to children from low-income families.
  The First Books program has a simple goal: to promote literacy in 
homes where books may not be readily available. They plan to make 
reading books more pleasurable and entertaining by connecting them to 
public television programming.
  Children in 25 different San Diego day care programs will receive 
free books from the First Books program. The YMCA's Childcare Resource 
Center staff, led by Director Nan Mitchell, hopes to extend the joy of 
books to the parents and teachers through monthly workshops designed to 
teach ways of making learning fun by combining books and public 
television.
  Providing books to children in homes where books are not always 
available is a proven way to build a firm foundation for future 
generations of schoolchildren. When one member of a family reads, it 
inspires the whole family.
  The First Books program will make sure that the children of working 
parents who strive to make ends meet, are not left behind, but will be 
involved in fun activities with books to make sure they are ready to 
learn.
  Research tells us that reading to our children from a very young age 
supports their development and enhances their learning. The adults who 
read with them--whether it be their parents or childcare providers--
share in unlocking the wonders of imagination that books foster.
  This program ensures all children will have the opportunity to 
discover the delight of books. Books are many children's most cherished 
possessions and provide long-lasting memories. I salute KPBS and the 
Childcare Resource Service for introducing all children to this magical 
world.

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