Would you like to hear a sobering statistic? According to widely published research by the National Institute of Literacy and the U.S. Department of Education, more than 30 million American adults are functionally illiterate. Whats worse is that if the trend continues, our nations workforce will be ill-equipped to compete in the global environment. Thats partially why we here at Canopies and Tarps place a great value on the development of reading and comprehension skills.

We are not the only ones either. Starting on February 28th, 2014, many organizations and schools will be kicking off a one two punch initiative designed to counteract our nations dismal literacy rate. It all starts with a reading challenge and Dr. Seuss birthday celebration. The two activities are part of a broader, annual initiative known as Read Across California Month. It runs from February 28th through March 31st.

During the month long initiative, why not set-up a party tent and help foster a love of reading among your communitys members too? Weve got a wide variety of colorful party tents that would be perfect for hosting a Dr. Seuss birthday party, book giveaway or a community read-athon. The party tents could even be decorated with Dr. Seuss character cut-outs, balloons and pictures of people reading together.

If you do decide to hold a Read Across California event in one of our party tents, dont forget to contact other local businesses. They may want to get in on the fun too. For example, a local bakery may be willing to donate a Dr. Seuss birthday cake or baked goods for the attendees. A local bookstore or charity organization may want to help by donating the books for the giveaway.

Speaking of charity organizations, there are actually several state and national ones that typically give free or low cost books to communities too. Among them are the Childrens Book Project, the Library of Congress Surplus Books Program, First book and the Heart of America Foundation. You may want to try and make contact with them prior to your event as well.

To learn more about our party tents and how to set them up in time for Read Across California events, please contact us at (877) 811-3911. We may be reached during the week by phone as well as via e-mail.