The Illinois Reading Council (IRC) has released the list of Illinois Reads books for 2026. Illinois Reads is a statewide program that promotes reading for all Illinois citizens. The program promotes six books in six different age bands by authors and illustrators who have ties to Illinois. The books range from read-to books for infants to books for adult readers. Bookmarks and posters highlighting the Illinois Reads books will be available in early 2026. Order early as supplies are limited!
The Illinois Reads Program will be featured at the annual IRC Conference at the Bank of Springfield Center in Springfield, Illinois on March 12-13, 2026. Conference registration is now open for educators, librarians, and others interested in promoting literacy. The 2026 Illinois Reads Program will also be featured at the Illinois Reads Book Festival at the National Teachers Academy in Chicago, Illinois on April 25, 2026. Readers throughout Illinois are invited to this free family event. Visit our websites to find out about other upcoming Illinois Reads events.
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