PEC celebrates National Read Across America Day by expanding its Literary Expedition Library
PEC lineman Darren Donhauser, one of the featured readers, poses with the book he reads. Courtesy photo.
In celebration of National Read Across America Day, Pedernales Electric Cooperative is adding new titles to its online library and sending volunteers into local classrooms to read with students. A few Highland Lakes locals are among the featured readers participating in the cooperative’s initiative.
Observed annually on March 2, the birthday of children’s author Dr. Seuss, National Read Across America Day is a countrywide initiative that promotes early literacy through school and community read-aloud events designed to encourage a love of books.
To mark the occasion, PEC added six new read-aloud videos to its Literary Expedition Library, a free resource for elementary students, parents and teachers. Launched in 2024, the digital library is shared with schools, libraries and after-school programs throughout the cooperative’s service area and has grown each year.
Among the featured readers is Texas singer-songwriter Cory Morrow.
“As a dad of five, reading to my kids has always been one of my favorite parts of parenting,” Morrow said in a media release. “Books spark imagination, encourage curiosity, and create moments of connection and laughter that stick with you. I’m grateful PEC supports programs like this that strengthen our community and encourage a love of reading.”
Additionally, featured readers include Calvin Richard, a transformational coach and men’s mentor; PEC journeyworker Darren Donhauser; Colt Elementary student Luke Stannard alongside Wattson the Raccoon, and members of Blanco Middle School’s University Interscholastic League Oral Reading Team, including eighth graders Emily Jamison and Eden Byrom and seventh grader Zoran Sykes.
Beyond the online library, PEC employees are visiting schools across the cooperative’s service area this week to read aloud in person. Teachers can request classroom readers year-round through the cooperative’s website.