87 Young “Royal Readers” Crowned at O’Kelly Memorial Library for National Book Lovers Day

Loganville, GA — August 9, 2025 — The O’Kelly Memorial Library became a royal court of literacy on National Book Lovers Day as Project Crown, a community celebration led by Mrs. Georgia American, Dr. Shanita Williams, welcomed 87 children and their families for a morning of storytelling, inspiration, and celebration.

 

The event featured a red carpet entrance where each child was crowned a “Royal Reader” by local titleholders. With crowns on their heads and smiles on their faces, the children walked the runway to cheers from family and friends, creating a joyful and empowering atmosphere.

 

Library Manager Avion Brisbane opened the doors for the special celebration, which drew families from over a dozen schools. The day saw a flurry of new library cards issued, an uptick in books checked out, and a renewed excitement for reading in the community.

 

A highlight of the morning was a student reader panel, where young participants shared tips and personal stories about developing a love for reading:

 

• Jonay Williams, Bay Creek Elementary: “You should read at least 20 minutes a day — it will build your reading stamina.”

• Sami, Bay Creek Elementary: “When I was younger it was hard to read, but I didn’t give up and found a genre I liked and it got easier.”

• Elvis, Snellville Middle School: “When reading a word is hard I try to sound it out, and if I can’t get it, I ask my mom for help.”

 

Parents left encouraged, with one saying, “I am inspired to read more at home. I know I can do better.” Another added, “I loved hearing the kids panel and how reading has impacted their lives.”

 

Loganville Mayor Skip Baliles offered a reminder of reading’s power: “You can travel to all the ends of the earth just by reading a book.”

 

Community members praised Dr. Williams’ leadership. Willane Joseph of the Loganville High School PTO noted, “Influencers are big in this world, and these days it just doesn’t seem like we have too many ‘good’ ones. Dr. Williams not only encouraged the kids to read, but also gave them great nuggets of information to enjoy reading for a lifetime.”

 

McKenna Davis, Miss Junior Loganville, added, “Reading is an extremely fundamental aspect for children’s development, and witnessing their genuine enthusiasm and love for reading was truly incredible!”

 

Williams plans to take Project Crown to the national stage later this month at the Mrs. American Pageant in Las Vegas, with the goal of inspiring communities nationwide to make reading an exciting, celebratory experience.

 

“Literacy changes lives,” Williams said. “If we make reading exciting and celebratory, children and parents alike will carry it into their homes and their futures.”

 

In Loganville, the proof was in the smiles — 87 Royal Readers, dozens of new library cards, and a community reminded that every page turned is a step toward new possibilities.