NEWS RELEASES  >  MAY 25, 2023

Follett Literacy Conference to Feature K-12 Educators, Children's Authors


Kate DiCamillo, Dwayne Reed Headline Lineup of Authors at June 22 Event in Naperville

MCHENRY, Ill., May 24, 2023 Follett School Solutions is bringing together educators and award-winning children’s authors on Thursday, June 22 to discuss trending topics in today’s K-12 schools. ReadingCon 2023, which will focus on literacy and diversity and how to make a difference in the lives of students, will run from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Northern Illinois University, Naperville Conference Center.

The professional development event for educators — teachers, librarians, administrators, and others — will feature breakout sessions addressing key topics facilitated by educators and experts in education alongside high-profile authors to promote deep discussion. Follett is partnering with the Regional Office of Education for McHenry County to offer Continuing Professional Development Units (CPDUs) for those educators who attend and are present the full day.

Authors set to participate at ReadingCon include Newbery Award-winning Kate DiCamillo, who also will deliver the opening keynote address. DiCamillo is one of only six authors to win two Newbery Medals, which she earned for The Tale of Despereaux and Flora & Ulysses.

Set to join DiCamillo are Chicago’s Dwayne Reed, author of the Simon B. Rhymin’ series and All Good in the Hood, his debut picture book, as well as Jerry Craft, Laurie Halse Anderson, Kazu Kibuishi, and others.

The conference agenda will include:

  • Breakout sessions on education topics
  • Dynamic author keynote speakers and author signings
  • Bookstore with featured author titles available for on-site purchases
  • Publisher marketplace to browse the latest titles from key publishers
  • Continental breakfast and lunch buffet

ReadingCon’s doors will open at 7 a.m. with breakfast and check-in, while the conference will run from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. The registration cost is $75 and includes educational sessions, author signings, and meals.

About Follett School Solutions | follettcontent.com

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Media Contact:  Doug Thompson | Thompson Drake Public Relations | 541.419.4471 | doug@thompsondrake.com

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