September reading activities

September is Library Card Sign-Up Month! Go to the American Library Association's Web site for free downloadable posters and bookmarks that remind parents and students that a library card is the most important school supply of all.

September 8 is International Literacy Day. Planning and participation materials are available online from the International Reading Association. The National Institute for Literacy also offers ideas for local International Literacy Day events.

Celebrate substitute teachers this year during Substitute Teacher Appreciation Week September 12-16, 2005.

Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated September 15 to October 15 each year. Read our article for more information and links to resources. You can also join the celebration by participating in the National Hispanic American Read-In Chain. Visit the International Reading Association's Web site for details.  Or go to the Infoplease site to do a Hispanic Heritage Month crossword puzzle.

Observed from September 24-October 1, 2005, Banned Books Week is a time to celebrate your freedom to read. Visit the American Library Association Web site for information, resources, and lists of banned and challenged books.

September author birthdays

Discover these literary luminaries for satisfying autumn reading:

• John Bierhorst: September 2
• Paul Fleischman: September 5
• Anthony Browne: September 11  
• Mildred Taylor: September 13
• Tomie dePaola: September 15  
• Gail Carson Levine: September 17
• Stephen King: September 21
• Cooper Edens: September 25

Send comments to readacross@nea.org