NEWS RELEASE

The Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners Asks Residents: "What’s Your Four?"

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 10, 2016
Celeste Bruno
Communications Specialist
1-800-952-7403 x208
celeste.bruno@state.ma.us

Children who read just four books over the summer fare better on reading comprehension tests in the fall than their peers who read one or no books. Because of this, the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners (MBLC) is challenging all Massachusetts residents to pick four books to read over the summer months and to share their selections on social media through a campaign called "What's Your Four?"

"Summer reading at the library is about much more than just books," said MBLC Chair Mary Ann Cluggish. "A lot of fun activities for kids and their families go along with it. Most importantly, it helps young students stay ahead academically."

After selecting four books, participants are asked to post the titles and authors to their Facebook or Instagram accounts along with a picture of them reading, and to add the hashtag #WhatsYourFour. Readers are also encouraged to tag their friends in their posts to ask them to participate as well. Together, these posts will show Massachusetts residents sharing in the fun of reading and will encourage children and teens to read this summer.

"Children are more likely to pick up a book if they see a role model who enjoys reading," said MBLC Director Dianne Carty. "The 'What's Your Four?' campaign is meant to encourage our youngest residents to not only read during the summer, but to become lifelong readers."

Massachusetts summer library programs are held at local public libraries across the Commonwealth. In addition to hosting reading programs, libraries provide a variety of other events for local residents including storytimes, author talks, and concerts. Children, teens and adults who are interested in taking part in a summer library program or the "What's Your Four?" initiative can find more information at www.readsinma.org.

Massachusetts has offered statewide online summer library programs since 2007. Participants register, write book reviews, set goals, and track their progress online. Massachusetts was the first state in the country to offer such a program. On average, 350 libraries offer statewide summer reading each year with over 400,000 participants of all ages.

About MBLC

The Board of Library Commissioners (mass.gov/mblc) is the agency of state government with the statutory authority and responsibility to organize, develop, coordinate and improve library services throughout the Commonwealth. The Board advises municipalities and library trustees on the operation and maintenance of public libraries, including construction and renovation. It administers state and federal grant programs for libraries and promotes cooperation among all types of libraries through regional library systems and automated resource sharing. It also works to ensure that all residents of the Commonwealth, regardless of their geographic location, social or economic status, age, level of physical or intellectual ability or cultural background, have access to essential new electronic information technologies and significant electronic databases.