Cabarrus County Communications

CONCORD — The Concord Branch of the Cabarrus County Public Library, is getting in on race action and raising awareness of literacy in the county. Two familiar names make a pit stop for a special kid-only story time.

Martha Earnhardt and Sam Bass will lead the Cabarrus County Public Library’s first All-Star Read, Meet and Greet on Thursday, May 19, at 4:15 p.m., in the children’s area of the Concord Branch (27 Union St. North).

This kid-only story time is for ages birth to 12, and considering space limitations, only one guardian may accompany each child.

The event is part of the 600 Festival Association’s May events and precedes the Hauler Parade and Fan Fest on Union Street in downtown Concord.

Considered the matriarch of the Earnhardt family, Martha Earnhardt is excited to participate in this event.

“I want my grandchildren and all the kids to read—no matter your age,” she said. “You should never lose your interest in reading as it serves you positively for the rest of your life.”

The first officially licensed artist of NASCAR, Sam Bass contributes greatly to the aesthetic experience of the sport, as many of the race car paint schemes are his creative designs. Bass knows the importance of a good illustration and contributes his craft to racetrack program covers and advertising campaigns.

Story times emphasize pre-literacy skills and use research-based practices that incorporate fun into the learning process. According to Cabarrus County Literacy Council website, children who have not developed some basic literacy skills by the time they enter school are three to four times more likely to drop out in later years.

There are 16,000 Cabarrus County adults who need help with reading, writing and expressing themselves in English.

For more information on All-star Read, Meet and Greet, visit www.cabarruscounty.us/onctw or call 704-920-2050.