Natchez Mayor Dan M. Gibson has announced the launch of a new early childhood literacy initiative designed to encourage a love of reading among the city’s youngest residents.
The program, called the Mayor’s Book Club, will provide age-appropriate books to children from birth to age 5 by mailing them directly to families each month at no cost.
A community celebration to launch the program will take place Thursday, March 12, 2026, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at Dixon Books, located at 514 Main Street in historic downtown Natchez.
“We are excited to share the love of reading with future generations,” Gibson said. “Today’s young readers will be tomorrow’s great leaders. Statistics prove that introducing our children to books at an early age significantly increases their odds of success. Reading is exercise for the imagination, stimulating young minds to imagine and achieve great things.”
The Mayor’s Book Club is believed to be the first mayor-sponsored program of its kind in Mississippi, with a goal of reaching 500 children each month.
“This will indeed be impactful upon our community,” Gibson added. “I can’t wait to hear the stories of young families finding new books in their mailboxes each month. As a child, reading made a profound difference in my life. I can’t wait to see the difference it will make in the lives of children across our community.”
Additional details about the initiative, including key sponsorships and partnerships helping make the program possible, will be announced during Thursday’s launch event.
Parents and caregivers with children from birth to age 5 will be able to register their children for the program during the launch celebration. Registration will also be available afterward at Natchez City Hall, Dixon Books, the George Armstrong Public Library, and other locations around the city.
“This project reflects our dedication to the future of Natchez,” Gibson said. “We look forward to sharing more details in the coming weeks and invite stakeholders to join us as we embark on this exciting journey. Look for the Mayor’s Book Club logo and sign up your children.”
Comments