Dec. 5, 2005

There's still time for book lovers of all ages to cast their votes for what will become the spotlight book for the Library of Michigan's 2006 "Michigan Reads!" one-state, one-preschool-book program, set for March 2006.  Currently, "Bed Hogs" by Kelly DiPucchio holds the front-runner position, having earned 41 percent of the online votes to date. 

However, Michigan Reads! coordinator Julia Meredith said that because practically all of the paper ballots being tallied in public libraries statewide have yet to be turned in, the final outcome is anything but certain.

"I've heard from several librarians who've said they're collecting all of their votes first and then will submit final numbers," said Meredith.  "In addition, many librarians have planned special 'Michigan Reads!' story times this week for their younger patrons, reading all five nominated books and then letting the children, parents and caregivers choose their favorites.  Really, come Friday, anything can happen!"

People can vote through Dec. 9 in one of two ways:  by making their choices online at www.michigan.gov/michiganreads or by voting in person with paper ballots at their local Michigan public libraries.  The book that earns the most votes will be announced in mid-December.  The five books on the ballot (and each title's respective percentage of current total votes) are:

• "Bed Hogs" by Kelly DiPucchio (41 percent)
• "Stranger in the Woods" by Carl Sams II and Jean Stoick (24 percent)
• "Sheep in a Jeep" by Nancy Shaw (19 percent)
• "Imogene's Antlers" by David Small (10 percent)
• "In the Small, Small Pond" by Denise Fleming (6 percent)

"Reading to children is one of the most important things parents and caregivers can do," said State Librarian Nancy Robertson.  "By showcasing one excellent preschool book in a variety of child- and family-friendly programming statewide, 'Michigan Reads!' can raise awareness of the critical need for such early-literacy family programs.  It's exciting to have the public determine what the winning book will be!"

Michigan Reads! was launched in 2004 by the Library of Michigan in partnership with the Michigan Center for the Book to promote the value and benefits of reading early and often to preschoolers; to encourage family bonding through reading; and to increase awareness and usage of Michigan's hundreds of public libraries.  This year, the program is sponsored by Brogan & Partners, Michigan Education Savings Program, Michigan Education Trust and the Library of Michigan Foundation.

The Library of Michigan is part of the Department of History, Arts and Libraries, which also includes the Mackinac Island State Park Commission, the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs, the Michigan Film Office and the Michigan Historical Center.

Read more press releases from the Department of History, Arts and Libraries.