LEWISBURG, WV – In honor of National Young Readers Week, First Lady Cathy Justice visited Lewisburg Elementary on Nov 12th, to read to students and inspire a lifelong love of reading.

National Young Readers Week is dedicated to encouraging literacy among young children and highlighting the positive impact of reading on students’ growth and learning.

“Reading is one of the most important tools we can offer our young people,” First Lady Cathy Justice said. “I’m excited to share this special week with the students at Lewisburg Elementary and help foster a love for books and storytelling. My hope is that every young reader in West Virginia finds joy in reading that supports them in school and life.”

During her visit, First Lady Justice read Dolly Parton’s “Billy the Kid Makes It Big” and interacted with students, discussing the power of reading to unlock creativity, knowledge, and empathy.

The First Lady’s reading event aligns with statewide efforts to support literacy programs and early education initiatives that empower West Virginia’s youth.

“Reading is important to our growth from children to adults, and it starts with a solid foundation in our early years,” Cabinet Secretary of Arts, Culture, and History Randall Reid-Smith said. “West Virginia is committed to improving literacy among our students, and a love of reading contributes to lifelong learning. Whether as students, family, or friends, Family Read Week is the perfect time to get together and read. Traveling to schools around the state to promote Young Readers Week among our students is always one of the highlights of my year.”

A total of 100 books were donated to Lewisburg Elementary School by Cabinet Secretary Randall Reid-Smith from the West Virginia Library Commission.

“We are so grateful to be receiving the donation of 100 books for our school library,” Lewisburg Elementary School Principal Sara Bennett said. “Introducing rich literature to young students is one of the most powerful investments we can make in their future. Books broaden their minds, deepen their empathy, and equip them with the tools they need to thrive in an increasingly complex world. As educators, parents, and community members, let us prioritize quality literature and give young readers the gift of stories that will inspire, teach, and stay with them for life.”

National Young Readers Week, celebrated nationwide, brings together schools, libraries, and communities to promote literacy and recognize reading as a foundation for academic success. Through activities like story time, book fairs, and author visits, the week emphasizes the vital role of reading in developing confident, curious young minds.