By: Fraser, et al. S.C.R. No. 38
(King of Taylor)
SENATE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, For countless young readers, books open a window to
a realm of imagination and possibility, and in recent years, the
city of Abilene has undertaken a series of unique efforts to
showcase the wonders of children's literature; and
WHEREAS, Abilene is the home of the National Center for
Children's Illustrated Literature, the only museum in Texas that
exclusively collects artwork from best-selling, award-winning
children's book illustrators; established in 1996, the center has
curated and toured nearly 60 exhibits in close to 40 states, which
are enjoyed by one million people every year; and
WHEREAS, Further adding to the city's whimsical charm is its
extensive collection of outdoor sculptures based on characters from
children's classics; while walking the length of Everman Park,
visitors can encounter bronze statues in the likeness of
Dr. Seuss's creations, and heroes from the works of
author-illustrators William Joyce and David Shannon are brought to
life in locations throughout the city; young explorers can also
receive a "passport" to help them find Seymour, the character from
Walter Wick's Can You See What I See? books, who is hidden at
several arts and cultural landmarks; and
WHEREAS, In total, 23 pieces have been commissioned by the
Abilene Cultural Affairs Council as part of its Storybook Sculpture
Project, thought to be the largest endeavor of its kind in any city;
each year, new additions to the project are dedicated at the
Children's Art & Literary Festival, a popular annual celebration
that includes family-friendly activities throughout downtown
Abilene; the festival is a collaborative effort of schools,
libraries, churches, civic groups, and city leaders, drawing crowds
of thousands from across the state and nation; and
WHEREAS, Literary works for children hold a cherished place
on the bookshelves of Texas families, and the true greats of the
genre weave captivating tales with dazzling artwork that is fondly
remembered for a lifetime; by embracing and promoting an essential
experience of childhood, residents of Abilene have established a
delightful tradition for young and old alike, and their efforts
have made the community a must-see destination for readers of all
ages; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the 84th Legislature of the State of Texas
hereby designate the city of Abilene as the official Storybook
Capital of Texas; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That, in accordance with the provisions of Section
391.003(e), Government Code, this designation remain in effect
until the 10th anniversary of its designation; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the children of our great state live happily
ever after.