On Saturday, April 1, 2023, hundreds of people celebrated literacy at Family Reading Day in James Weldon Johnson Park. The event was organized by Kids Hope Alliance, the Jacksonville Public Library, the Jacksonville Public Education Fund, and several other members of the READ JAX collaborative in an effort to promote the importance of family reading.
The event featured a book giveaway from READ USA, a Book Character Parade, face painters, balloon artists, and free boxed lunches from Firehouse Subs. Action News Jax Anchor Tenikka Hughes gave opening remarks, followed by local author Vincent Taylor, who led the parade alongside his book character "Cornbread." Taylor also gave away autographed copies of his books to attendees.
Families then had time to visit a variety of vendors who offered youth and adult literacy services. The event concluded with the announcement of the four winners of the Book Review Contest, each of whom were awarded $100.
We want to thank all of our partners for making this event a huge success, and we look forward to another Family Reading Day soon!