Dover, NH – For the fourth consecutive year, Irving Oil is underwriting the highly successful Books Alive! children’s literacy program at The Children’s Museum of New Hampshire. This program features visits from favorite children’s book characters and related hands-on literacy activities, to help foster an early interest in reading. This year’s series of events will include three characters who are new to the museum and one returning children’s literature superstar.
 
“Irving Oil was the inaugural sponsor of the Books Alive! program four years ago, and we are honored to have their continued support,” said Denise Doleac, museum director. “This is one of the most successful programs in the museum’s 26-year history, with several beloved book characters attracting more than 1,000 visitors each. Thanks to Irving Oil, thousands of children have gotten excited about reading by making a personal connection with one of their favorite book characters.”
 
The 2009-2010 Books Alive! series kicks off on Saturday, November 21 from 10 am – 2 pm with a visit from Biscuit, the lovable Golden Retriever puppy from the series of early reader books by author Alyssa Satin Capucilli. The series continues with visits from:
Frog and Toad – January 16, 2010
Olivia – March 13, 2010
Clifford – May 8, 2010
 
Books Alive! events are held on Saturday mornings from 10 am – 2 pm. Museum staff members read stories aloud for visitors and the featured costumed character makes frequent appearances to greet children and pose for pictures. Children are also invited to participate in character-inspired creative activities in the museum’s Project Area. Books Alive! character appearances are included in the museum’s regular price of admission: $8 for children and adults, $7 for seniors age 65+ and no charge for museum members or children under one year of age.
 
Past Books Alive! events have featured Curious George, Corduroy, Cat in the Hat and the Berenstain Bears. Some of these popular character visits set new attendance records at the museum. “We are thrilled to have generated so much interest in children’s literature,” said Jane Bard, Director of Education at The Children’s Museum. “Irving Oil’s generous commitment makes it possible for us to continue putting the spotlight on book characters who can be positive role models for kids.”
 
The not-for-profit Children’s Museum of New Hampshire is located at 6 Washington Street in Dover and offers two levels of hands-on, custom-created exhibits for children ages 1-12. Children can explore a wide range of subjects, from dinosaurs, music and aeronautics to world cultures, art and natural history. The museum also hosts numerous live performances, workshops, classes and special events all year ‘round.
 
For more information, please call the museum at (603) 742-2002 or visit www.childrens-museum.org.