Read Across America Celebration

LEXINGTON, Ky. (WTVQ)- Kentucky residents gathered together to celebrate their love of reading Saturday at the Fayette Mall.

Every year, the Read Across America Celebration organizers invite kids of all ages to come to a safe place and hear books read to them by a caring adult.

Kentucky’s Secretary of State Alison Lundergan Grimes was on hand to read to the children, as well as many other local celebrities including members of the fire and police departments, as well as University of Kentucky athletes.

The Fayette County Education Association organizes the event to promote reading among their students, which they strongly believe is very important for kids.

Jessica Hiler with Read Across America says, “it aides with brain development obviously.  Our kids look at screens a lot so we really want them to be looking at books more than we look at screens.  It just really shows them it’s really important when they see an adult reading to them.”

Children not only get to hear their favorite characters come to life, but they also received goody bags with their own personal book included.

The Read Across AmericaCelebration is held annually in various locations across the country and is currently celebrating its 20th anniversary.

This is the eighth time it’s taken place in Lexington, and organizers say they hope to continue the tradition.