By Jeff Devine, Dale County Chronicle
As Read Across America Week concludes today, communities nationwide are celebrating a year‑round effort to promote literacy, multicultural perspectives, and the joy of reading among students of all ages through the National Education Association’s signature literacy initiative.
Launched in 1998, Read Across America has grown into the nation’s largest celebration of reading, connecting students with books that reflect varied voices, experiences, and perspectives. Rather than centering solely on one author or book, the program now offers monthly book recommendations with themes that explore kindness, identity, community, and resilience.
This year’s Read Across America featured the March 2026 theme “Champion Kindness,” with selected books highlighted for students at different grade levels:
Elementary: We Are Definitely Human by X. Fang – Three strangers arrive in the yard of Mr. and Mrs. Li, claiming to be ordinary earthlings looking for help. This title is available to borrow through the Libby App if you have a library card at any of Alabama’s Public Libraries.
Middle Grade: Vanya and the Wild Hunt by Sangu Mandanna – Eleven-year-old Vanya Vallen, a British Indian girl with ADHD who secretly talks to books, is drawn into a magical world where she must uncover her parents’ secrets and stop the deadly Wild Hunt. This title is also available in the digital collection through the Libby App. Currently, however, you must place a hold and when it becomes available, the app will notify you.
Young Adult: Everything We Never Had by Randy Ribay – A Filipino American family’s story is told across four generations of sons, exploring identity, family and societal expectations, and father-son relationships. This title is currently available through the Libby app and there is no wait time.
In addition to recommended titles, the NEA offers educators and families resources for hosting Read‑Ins, classroom discussions, and activities that celebrate reading with purpose and joy. Schools across the country have shared engaging book readings, videos, and virtual events to keep students connected to great stories throughout the week and beyond.
NEA leaders stress that Read Across America is more than a week on the calendar—it’s a year‑long mission to ensure students discover books where they can see themselves reflected and learn about others. The program also provides educators with tools to highlight literacy in classrooms, libraries, and communities throughout the school year.
As the week ends, organizers hope families, educators, and community members will continue celebrating books and encouraging a lifelong love of reading in children of all ages.
If you and your family wish to continue the reading celebration, you can visit your local public library. Below is a list of libraries in the Dale County area and their addresses and hours of operation.
Ozark Dale County Library, 296 N. Union Ave., Ozark (334) 775-5480
Open: Sun. & Mon.- Closed; Tues. 10 a.m. -7 p.m.; Wed. 10 a.m.-5p.m.; Thurs. 10 a.m. -7p.m.; Fri. & Sat.- 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Daleville Public Library: 308 Donnell Blvd.
Daleville, AL 36322. (334) 504-9119
Hours: Monday – Thursday 10:00 am – 6:00 pm Friday – Saturday 10:00 am -3:00 pm Closed Sunday
Newton Public Library & Museum
209 Oates Drive ♦ Newton, AL 36352 ♦ 334-299-3361 ext.
Hours: Monday- Friday 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
