WASHINGTON, DC In an effort to improve children's reading skills and promote a lifelong love of books, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) today introduced legislation designating March 2, 2007 as "Read Across America Day." Started 10 years ago as a way to get kids excited about reading, Read Across America Day is celebrated each year on March 2nd, the birthday of Theodor "Ted" Geisel, better known to readers everywhere as "Dr. Seuss." In the decade since its inception, Read Across America, sponsored by the National Education Association (NEA), has become the nation's largest reading celebration with more than 45 million readers nationwide, including children, school groups, and civic organizations, participating annually in the Seussian event. "Read Across America Day is a national celebration of reading at all levels," said Senator Reed. "It is a great opportunity for adults to set a good example for young people. By sharing your favorite book with a child, you can instill a lifelong interest in reading." Reed's resolution, cosponsored by Senator Susan Collins (R-ME), encourages parents to read with their children and honors Theodor Geisel for his success in making reading fun for kids. "This is the 10th annual Read Across America Day and every year the event continues to grow. I hope we can keep up the momentum. I am pleased to once again offer legislation celebrating the joy of reading, and commemorating the life and legacy of Theodor Geisel, whose books have been adored by generations of children and adults alike," said Reed. Theodor Geisel was born on March 2, 1904, in Springfield, Massachusetts. In addition to being one of the most revered and beloved authors of children's books, Dr. Seuss also helped millions of children develop their reading skills. This year also marks the 50th birthday of Dr. Seuss' classic children's book, The Cat in the Hat. To celebrate Read Across America Day, NEA encourages events across the country to bring reading excitement to children of all ages. To learn more about Read Across America events taking place throughout Rhode Island, go to:nea.org Read Across America Day is also a time to make sure those who are in need have plenty to read. NEA encourages people to donate books to schools, hospitals, and homeless shelters that need them. Rhode Islanders wishing to make a contribution can go to: seussville.com to send a free birthday card to the Cat. For each card sent, Random House Publishers donates one book to First Book, an organization that gives children from low-income families the opportunity to read and own their first new books. "Read Across America Day culminates on March 2nd, but we can celebrate it all throughout the year. Reading to our young people is one of the most important things that we can do. By making reading fun we encourage more children to pick up a book and develop the skills they will need to be successful throughout their lives," concluded Reed. Senator Reed has long been a champion of child literacy programs. Reed's Improving Literacy Through School Libraries program has provided over $80 million to help more children learn to read.