Celebrating Reading for Less

Today is Read Across America Day and children everywhere are celebrating Dr. Seuss’s birthday and his lifelong emphasis on the importance of literacy. 

This morning, Healdsburg celebrated this important day by having officials such as and read books to students at .members are also participating by reading to students at . 

Getting your kids fired up about reading doesn’t have to cost a lot of money.  Here are some ways to help your kids get their noses into the books and celebrate the gift of the written word.  

1. Make the books come alive.  These websites have activity guides for your favorite Dr. Suess story to get the imagination going.  Download printable coloring sheets, activities, and games to keep your little ones engaged in the story.  Find some interactive, Dr. Seuss related downloadables at this website.
2. Read for Free!  We can't say it enough times-the library is a gold mine of knowledge and free books.  The children’s section has an abundance of new and older titles and includes many research books for the upcoming Science Fair.  The library also has ongoing readings in the mornings for smaller children.   The Healdsburg Library has an online calendar so you can check what events are happening this month.
3. Get books for cheap!  Sometimes it’s great for kids to have and keep their favorite book, without ever having to return it.  By shopping at our local Goodwill and Salvation Army, you can find loads of slightly used children’s books for almost nothing.  The benefit of shopping at these thrift stores is that they benefit very good causes, giving you peace of mind for the dollars you spend.
4. Ask friends with older kids.  Sometimes people don’t know what to do with their old children’s books.  Many feel more comfortable giving their much-loved books to a friend or relative than donating them.  You never know until you ask.
5. Visit discount bookstores online.Book Closeouts has a good selection of discounted but new children’s books.  The book, “1, 2, 3 to the Zoo” by Eric Carle was $5.99.  Shipping is a little extra.  With Thrift Books, books are slightly used, but shipping is free.  The book, “1, 2, 3 to the Zoo” was on sale for $3.95.  Amazon usually carries many used version of your favorite book too.  Shipping charges usually run a couple bucks extra.
6. The Library.  Didn’t we already mention the library?  Many people don’t know that the library also sells books at deeply discounted prices.  This month, the will hold a starting with members-only on March 16 and 17, then will open to the public on March 18 and 19.  In addition to selling lots of children’s books, the library will be selling DVD’s, CD’s and all sorts of other books and media as well for low prices.