Children’s Literature Week
Children’s Literature Week: A Celebration of Young Readers and Stories
Children’s Literature Week is an annual celebration dedicated to inspiring a love of reading among young readers. It highlights the importance of children’s books in fostering creativity, imagination, and literacy skills. This week-long event brings together schools, libraries, bookstores, and families to celebrate the joy of storytelling and the transformative power of books.
Quick Facts
- When is it? May 5–11, 2025
- Tagged as: Literacy, Education, Children’s Books
- What’s the hashtag? #ChildrensBookWeek
- When was it founded? 1919
- Who founded it? Franklin K. Matthiews, Frederic G. Melcher, and Anne Carroll Moore
History of Children’s Literature Week
Children’s Literature Week traces its origins back to 1913 when Franklin K. Matthiews, a librarian for the Boy Scouts of America, advocated for higher standards in children’s books. In 1919, with the support of Frederic G. Melcher and Anne Carroll Moore, the first official Children’s Book Week was launched. Over the decades, it has grown into a nationwide initiative celebrated in schools, libraries, and homes. In 2008, its administration was transferred to Every Child a Reader, which expanded its reach to include two celebrations annually: one in May and another in November.
Timeline
- 1913: Franklin K. Matthiews campaigns for better children’s literature.
- 1919: The inaugural Children’s Book Week is held.
- 1944: The Children’s Book Council takes over its administration.
- 2008: The event moves from November to May.
- 2018: A second celebration in November is added.
- 2019: The 100th anniversary is celebrated.
Dates by Next Year (2025–2030)
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | May 5–11 | Monday–Sunday |
| 2026 | May 4–10 | Monday–Sunday |
| 2027 | May 3–9 | Monday–Sunday |
| 2028 | May 1–7 | Monday–Sunday |
| 2029 | May 7–13 | Monday–Sunday |
| 2030 | May 6–12 | Monday–Sunday |
Observed
Children’s Literature Week is celebrated across schools, libraries, bookstores, and homes. Activities include book readings, storytelling sessions, literary-themed crafts, author meet-and-greets, and book drives. The week encourages families to bond over shared stories while promoting literacy among children.
Fun Facts About Children’s Literature Week
- It is the longest-running national literacy initiative in the United States.
- The event often features unique yearly themes like “Reading is a Superpower” or “Book an Adventure.”
- Over 2,300 schools and libraries participate annually across all U.S. states.
Quiz
- Who is considered the “father of children’s literature”?
(Answer: John Newbery) - What year was the first Children’s Book Week celebrated?
(Answer: 1919) - Which book by Lewis Carroll is often hailed as a pioneer in children’s fantasy literature?
(Answer: Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland)
FAQs
Why do we celebrate Children’s Literature Week?
To inspire a love for reading among children and highlight the importance of literacy.
How can I celebrate at home?
Create a cozy reading nook or host a family storytime with your child’s favorite books.
Who organizes Children’s Literature Week?
It is organized by Every Child a Reader in partnership with the Children’s Book Council.
Related
- International Children’s Book Day (April 2)
- National Literacy Month
- World Read Aloud Day
