Layten and Langsten Haughee enjoy Preschool Story Time at the Warsaw Community Public Library.

WARSAW — Children’s book author Beverly Cleary, creator of such works as “Ramona the Pest,” “Henry and Ribsy” and “The Mouse and the Motorcycle” will celebrate her 102nd birthday April 12.

The Warsaw Community Public Library is promoting a system that Cleary touts In her book “Ramona Quimby, Age 8.” In that literary work, Cleary introduced a program designed to make reading a regular part of a child’s routine. Sustained silent reading in this book became D.E.A.R., or “Drop Everything and Read.” This practice has been adopted in homes and schools all over the world, and children and adults have been enriched and inspired.

D.E.A.R. is much more than just sitting and reading for a specified period of time. In a school setting, students are able to read what they want to read, instead of something that has been assigned to them.

They can share what they have read, and receive support to further explore the world of books. At home, the whole family can relax together while minds are journeying to other lands or learning about previously unknown topics.

Parents are encouraged to take the time to read themselves. Nothing takes the place of modeling lifelong reading habits. You can be a good example to your children while investing in your own professional development, or reading something that will add to your enjoyment of life. You make time for the things that are important to you. Make sure you prioritize reading, and your children will learn from you.

For parents whose children complain of having nothing to read at home, the local library may be the answer. WCPL has thousands of choices. No matter how parents decide to implement D.E.A.R., all children can benefit from free reading time. The answer for encouraging a lifelong love of reading is to simply do it.

For more information on the program, go online to dropeverythingandread.com or come into the WCPL and inquire about the program. WCPL is located at 310 E. Main St. in Warsaw, and the website is warsawlibrary.org. You can also reach us by telephone at (574) 267-6011.