Utah governor and first lady unveil statewide early-literacy drive

At Salt Lake City’s Sprague Library, Governor Spencer Cox and First Lady Abby Cox introduced Utah Reads, a statewide effort to improve early literacy. Abby Cox entertained children with a mouse-voiced rendition of a picture book, and the governor read a familiar rhyme, underscoring the campaign’s focus on making story time enjoyable. A panel with State Superintendent of Public Instruction Molly Hart, The Children’s Center Utah President Rebecca Dutson and Salt Lake City Public Library Executive Director Noah Baskett discussed how parental involvement is crucial, noting that about 38,000 students are far below reading grade level.

Participants stressed that screens are displacing books and that reading at home builds both academic and emotional skills. The Utah Reads website provides practical ideas, a map of free little libraries, and downloadable games to help families read despite “wiggles.” An upcoming Utah Read-A-Thon on Oct. 2 will extend the push into schools, libraries and businesses across the state.