SPRINGFIELD — Illinois Lt. Gov. Sheila Simon, Secretary of State and State Librarian Jesse White and the Illinois Reading Council (IRC) have formally launched Illinois Reads, the first ever statewide literacy program spanning all generations.

“As a former educator and as a mom, I know how important it is to get kids excited about reading at an early age,” said Simon, a former Illinois Reading Council Legislative Award winner. “A love of reading will help ignite a desire for learning that can carry our young students into higher education and well into adulthood.”

“I have always been committed to ensuring that all Illinois citizens have access to quality literacy programs that set them on the path to lifelong learning,” said White, honorary chairman of Illinois Reads. “Illinois Reads is an exciting new program that will enhance our literacy efforts by encouraging all Illinoisans to read books by authors who are connected to the state of Illinois.”