A large gathering of children and adults took advantage of the opportunity to learn more about African-American authors and the books they produce during a read-in event Wednesday at the Troy Public Library.

The event was hosted by the Troy Council of Teachers of English. Dr. Patricia Waters’ young adult literature class at Troy University conducted the fifth African-American Read-In at the Troy Public Library and Waters’ said the event continues to attract more interest each year.

“By participating in the African-American Read-Ins, we are supporting literacy in the Troy community by reading the works of African American writers,” Waters said. “In the past, students have read to the group. But, this year, we read one-on-one with the children who chose the book they wanted to read or have read to them. This worked really well because the children read books of special interest to them.”

Waters said the children were also exposed to some of the most noted African-American authors and illustrators.

“We had a large number of picture books available and the artwork is absolutely fantastic,” Waters said. “The illustrations are as important in a picture book as the words. So the children were not only introduced to authors, like Ezra Jack Keats, they were also introduced to award-winning illustrators, like Jerry Pinkney who won the 2010 Caldecott Medal for United States picture book illustration.”

Waters said the National African-American Read-In is encouragement to schools, libraries, churches and community and professional organizations to make literacy a significant part of Black History Month.

Each year, the Troy Chapter of the National Council of Teachers of English and Waters young adult literature class makes presentations that feature professional African-American writers and the TPL proudly hosts the event, said Teresa Colvin, children’s librarian.

“The read-in has been endorsed by the International Reading Association,” Waters said. “More than a million readers of all ethnic groups from 48 states, the District of Columbia, the West Indies and African countries have participated. The goal – our goal – is to make the celebration of African American literacy a traditional part of Black History Month activities.”