TORONTO, June 5 /CNW/ -

    WHAT:  Despite summer traditionally being a break from books, studies
           show summer reading can help kids maintain - and even enhance -
           reading skills gained during the school year. Summer reading clubs
           are increasing in popularity as parents and teachers combine
           forces to make reading attractive in the hopes that children will
           maintain or improve their reading levels.

           A recent literature review by Goss Gilroy Inc. for Library and
           Archives Canada (LAC) provides compelling insights into just how
           beneficial summer reading clubs can be for children. Three key
           benefits cited in the report include:

              -  Better reading performance
              -  Greater reading volume
              -  Improved reading and learning confidence

    WHY:   Now is the time to encourage children and educate parents on the
           importance of summer reading. Entering its 9th season this summer
           and with 350,000 annual participants, the TD Summer Reading Club
           is an award-winning program and joint initiative between Library
           and Archives Canada, Toronto Public Library and TD Bank Financial
           Group.

    WHO:   Ken Setterington, Children and Youth Services Advocate for Library
           Services, Toronto Public Library is an excellent resource to
           discuss books that appeal to children and youth of all ages. With
           more than 30 years experience, Ken is the co-author of The Guide
           to Canadian Children's Books.

           Doug Rimmer, Assistant Deputy Minister, Library and Archives
           Canada can provide:

              -  Statistics and success rates on the impact the TD Summer
                 Reading Club has on participants
              -  Objectives of the 2007 program
              -  What's new for the summer of 2007

    WHEN:  More than 2,000 local libraries will be rolling out the "reading
           carpet" again beginning in June.

For further information: or to schedule an interview with the
above-named spokespeople, please contact: Sandra Chiovitti, Porter Novelli
Canada at (416) 422-7170 or sandra.chiovitti@porternovelli.com