This was announced by the Commonwealth Libraries Office of the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE). Mel fell by Corey R. Tabor was named to the 2023 PA One Book Early Literacy Selection. In his 18thth Year, the Pennsylvania One Book program promotes the value and benefits of early and frequent reading for preschool children. PA One Book is a nationwide initiative that encourages family engagement through books and offers activities aimed at building important language, literacy and social skills.
“The development of early literacy skills lays the foundation for lifelong learning,” said Susan Banks, Assistant Secretary, Commissioner for Libraries and State Librarian. “Last year, our investment in the PA One Book early learning initiative reached more than 8,000 children across the Commonwealth through collaborative partnerships between libraries, early learning programs and community organizations.”
The PA One Book Early Literacy Project is made possible through a collaboration between PDE, Office of Commonwealth Libraries, Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL), Pennsylvania Center for the Book, Pennsylvania State University, Tuscarora Intermediate Unit 11 , Center for Schools & Communities, Technical Assistance Early Intervention, James V. Brown Library and Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh.
The collaborating agencies involved in the initiative have developed a program that is accessible to all areas and populations of the state. Each year, a different children’s picture book is selected by the committee to be featured. This year’s title Mel fellis the triumphant story of a young bird learning to fly, emphasizing the importance of confidence and encouraging children to feel brave.
Public libraries and accredited early childhood education programs across Pennsylvania will be provided with a copy of the book in early 2023.
Funding was provided in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the terms of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by the Office of Commonwealth Libraries. Additional funds were provided by the OCDEL.
Pennsylvanians are encouraged to visit their local public library to read past titles of PA One Book and to look for special read-aloud events and other opportunities for preschoolers to participate in book-related activities next spring.
For more information about the Pennsylvania Department of Education, visit the website or follow PDE on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube or Pinterest.