WATCH: San Angelo Celebrates Literacy with Fifth Annual READS! Day Proclamation

SAN ANGELO, TX — San Angelo officially proclaimed Dec. 4 as the fifth annual San Angelo READS! Day in a ceremony held this morning outside Bradford Elementary School.

Mayor Brenda Gunter joined San Angelo ISD and local leaders to recognize the event, which highlights the importance of literacy within the community.

San Angelo READS! aims to inspire lifelong reading habits and promote literacy skills essential for future-ready learners, according to information from San Angelo ISD. Research shows that children who read for pleasure outperform their peers on reading and writing assessments, the information states. 

The event featured a City Council proclamation, read by the mayor. Community members are encouraged to participate in the campaign by reading with their children, donating books, or supporting local literacy programs.

To further celebrate, a free, family-friendly “North Pole Pop-Up” event will take place tomorrow, Dec. 5, from 4-5 p.m. at the San Angelo Stadium parking lot.

Activities include book giveaways, read-alouds, holiday-themed games, arts and crafts, and visits from local and holiday celebrities. Attendees can also enjoy STEM games and face painting.

Since its inception five years ago, San Angelo READS! has provided thousands of books to students.