April

April 2–8—National Library Week

Sponsored by the American Library Association, this week encourages youth and adults to use and support libraries of all types. For information, go to www.ala.org/ala/pio/campaign/nlw/NLW.htm.

April 10–16—Young People’s Poetry Week

Encourage students to celebrate poetry during this weeklong event sponsored by the Children’s Book Council, the American Academy of Poets, and the Center for the Book in the Library of Congress. Find ideas for sharing poetry at www.cbcbooks.org/yppw/.

April 22—Earth Day

It wouldn’t be spring without this annual event to acknowledge our responsibility for the environment and make a commitment to act on the Earth’s behalf. This year’s focus is on solutions to climate change. For more, check out www.earthday.net.

May

May 1–31—National Physical Fitness and Sports Month

Sponsored by the President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports, this month is the time to start participating in regular physical activity and learn about the benefits of exercise. Visit www.fitness.gov for more information.

May 4—Horace Mann’s Birthday

Horace Mann (1796–1859) is considered the father of U.S. free public schools.

May 5—Cinco de Mayo

The anniversary of the Mexican victory over the French army in the 1862 Battle of Puebla.

May 22—International Day for Biological Diversity

This day focuses on raising awareness of how pollution, overuse, and habitat destruction threaten species and biological diversity. Go to www.biodiv.org/programmes/outreach/awareness/biodiv-day-2006.shtml.