Hundreds of students gathered at the Utah Capitol on Friday, Oct. 2, 2026, as Gov. Spencer Cox and first lady Abby Cox launched the Utah Reads Read-a-Thon, a statewide effort aimed at encouraging children and adults to spend more time reading. The initiative seeks to foster lasting reading habits across the state in response to concerns regarding literacy rates.
Capitol Rotunda Gathering
The event featured a massive gathering in the Utah Capitol rotunda, where nearly 500 students spread out blankets and settled in for an hour of reading. Participants included students of all ages, many of whom selected fantasy novels for their reading sessions. Fifth-grader Bridgham Beddes noted a preference for titles such as Fablehaven and Keeper of the Lost Cities.
Statewide Participation Efforts
The reach of the read-a-thon extended to schools, libraries, and universities throughout Utah, from Cache Valley in the north to the southern end of the state. According to Deseret News, more than 275,000 students and adults participated through various schools, libraries, businesses, and organizations across the state. At some locations, younger students received five free books to take home, while at others, older students spent time reading to younger children.
Addressing Literacy Concerns
First lady Abby Cox emphasized that the initiative aims to inspire children to move away from digital screens and engage more deeply with books. She noted that reading rates in Utah and across the nation are currently not meeting desired benchmarks. The goal of the event is to encourage families to integrate reading into their daily routines to combat these declining literacy rates.
Guadalupe School Visit
The launch event included a visit to Guadalupe School in Salt Lake City, where the Coxes participated in a book fair that transitioned into a reading event. During the visit, Gov. Cox and the first lady read to students and interacted with children, helping them select books and personalize their new copies. According to Deseret News, the setting of the Capitol and the presence of the Governor helped attract students who might not otherwise have been interested in reading.
The Impact of Reading
For many students participating, the act of reading provided a sense of escapism. Fourth-grader May Warnick remarked that reading allows for experiences in places one could never otherwise be. Parents also observed that the unique setting of the Utah Capitol added a layer of excitement that made the activity more engaging for their children.
Long-Term Goals
Organizers expressed hope that the Utah Reads Read-a-Thon would spark a long-term interest in literature rather than serving as a single-day event. By combining community engagement with the novelty of a Capitol visit, the initiative seeks to build sustainable reading habits among Utah's youth and families.
