On Saturday, April 30, the Arlington Public Library, in partnership with UTA Modern Languages Department, presents Dia! a celebration of children, families, and reading at the UTA Maverick Activity Center Soccer Gym.

The event, which is free and open to the public, will take place from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Children will enjoy clowns, Zumba dancing, crafts, and a bounce house, and will have the opportunity to check out books from the library's new Literacy LINK van. Children's book author Roseanne Greenfield Thong will host a writing workshop for children in grades 3-5, and a presentation for children and parents of all ages.

Affectionately referred to as "Dia", el d`a de los ni`os is a national celebration of children, families, and reading, and emphasizes the importance of literacy for children from all backgrounds and nationalities.

"El d`a de los ni`os connects children to new cultures and people through the power of books and stories," library services manager Ivonne Kieffer said. "Families who attend this event will not only have fun, they will learn about and connect with people and resources in their community."

The annual event has a long history, and information about its development can be found through the American Library Association.

Click here to see the Dia! Flyer