In 1981, the Virginia State Reading Association, in association with the Virginia Educational Media Association, the Virginia Library Association, and the Library of Virginia Youth Services began offering youth throughout the state an exciting literary opportunity. The program, called Virginia Young Readers, allows young people to read the latest and best books, then vote on their favorite in a statewide competition. There are four levels of participation: primary, elementary, middle, and high school. At each level, a panel nominates ten books. Young people must read at least four of the nominated titles before voting on their favorite. Across our state, young readers broaden their awareness of literature as a life-long pleasure. They get to honor a favorite author and become better acquainted with contemporary literature. The Southwest Virginia Reading Council hopes to promote increased participation in this program in our area of Virginia. Information may be accessed on the Virginia State Reading Association's web site at http://www.vsra.org. The Southwest Virginia Reading Council, the local affiliate of the Virginia State Reading Association, encourages parents, students, and teachers to learn more about this program.