He often tells children that as a young boy growing up his family didn't have much money, so he was able to find adventures and travel to distant lands by reading. He knew that libraries offered him a way out of poverty and into a successful career. I, like many others, used to climb out of poverty. Now, it's my goal to see that every school-age child in Houston gets a library card. In addition to Mayor Brown, readers will include U.S. Representative Ken Bentsen, U.S. Representative Sheila Jackson Lee, State Senator Rodney Ellis, State Senator Mario Gallegos, Director of Libraries Barbara A.B. Gubbin, six state representatives, three school district superintendents, seven Houston City Council Members, Fire Chief Lester Tyra, Judge Berta Mejia and many others.
All programs are free and open to the public.
The City Readers Are Leaders series has been introducing children to city leaders since 1997. Children 18 and younger are eligible for the program, and registration is ongoing and free. Please note that anyone can apply for a Power Card at any Houston Public Library location. Children under 18 years of age need the signature of a parent or guardian. Anyone in these counties can now receive a free Power Card.