Celebrate Literacy through Read Across America

Join the City of Virginia Beach for a Read Across America celebration March 7-8. Each year, Virginia Beach GrowSmart marks Read Across America Day on the first Friday in March to launch National Reading Month. The celebration has evolved to emphasize diverse books and authors, promoting inclusive stories that reflect various experiences and cultures.  

Read Across America Day Kick-Off 
March 7, 9-10 a.m., Over 100 Childcare Sites 

A video message featuring City Manager Patrick Duhaney kicks off the celebration, followed by volunteer-led readings at more than 200 participating classrooms featuring the book “I Am Human: A Book of Empathy” by Susan Verde, illustrated by Peter Reynolds. “I Am Human” highlights the transformative power of empathy and human connection. 

To help foster a love of reading, 10,000 books will be distributed to children across the city at participating preschools and childcare centers, thanks to the generous support of Virginia Beach GrowSmart sponsors and partners. 

The 2025 Read Across America Day video will be available on VBTV and online. 

Additional events will be held, including a community Storywalk, author book-signing and professional development for childcare providers, which are free and open to the public. 

"I Am Human" StoryWalk Unveiling 
March 7, 11 a.m. to noon, Williams Farm Park  

Enjoy a walk in the park featuring the book “I Am Human” and meet New York Times bestselling author Susan Verde. The StoryWalk will be featured until March 31. 

Books & Bundts: Meet the Author of "I Am Human" 
March 7, 2-3 p.m., Lynnhaven Mall, Tot Lot Area by Barnes & Noble 

Can’t make it to the park? Attend a meet and greet with Susan Verde and enjoy a sweet treat while supplies last. 

Mindfulness Training for Early Childhood Educators 
March 8, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Meyera E. Oberndorf Central Library  

Early childhood educators are invited to attend a free and enriching day of professional development led by author Susan Verde. This training provides strategies to balance classroom and personal well-being, all through the transformative practice of mindfulness. Registration is required by noon on March 7. 

GrowSmart 

Virginia Beach GrowSmart, a division of Virginia Beach Public Library, supports the belief that every child deserves access to quality and affordable early childhood education and literacy opportunities. Access to quality early learning environments supports kindergarten readiness and builds a strong foundation for future learning and life success.  

GrowSmart offers innovative, science-based solutions that support children with the early literacy tools they need to be successful in school.  

“Reading aloud to kids builds vocabulary, supports school readiness skill development and strengthens children’s social-emotional skills,” said Katie Cerqua, library programming and community outreach manager and interim GrowSmart coordinator. “Read Across America is a true celebration of the love of reading for our youngest residents.” 

Thank you, Virginia Beach GrowSmart sponsors and community partners: Virginia Beach Economic Development, Virginia Beach Public Library, United Way of South Hampton Roads, Anthem HealthKeepers, TowneBank, Molina Healthcare, Square One, Clark Nexsen, The Noblemen, Lynnhaven Mall, Nothing Bundt Cakes and the Virginia Beach GrowSmart Foundation.   

To learn more Virginia Beach GrowSmart and programs, visit www.vbgrowsmart.com.