FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

November 5, 2001

Contact: Amy Gwiazdowski 
Ph: (202) 220-4550 
Email: amyg@publishers.org

Santa Claus Caught in the Act -- of Reading!

Washington, DC: Santa Claus has joined a notable line-up of celebrities as the latest to be "caught reading." Santa was recently caught sneaking some reading time somewhere between making his list and checking it twice.

"Reading is so wonderful that even Santa, who is incredibly busy this time of year, found a way to sneak in a few minutes of reading time. We all need to get back to basics, and reading ourselves and to our children is the best way do that. We should all try to share a book with a friend, a relative or, a community group such as a daycare center, this holiday season; it's the best gift we can give," said Pat Schroeder, President and CEO of the Association of American Publishers (AAP).

The new photo of Santa Claus caught reading is now available on the Get Caught Reading website, www.getcaughtreading.org, along with other celebrities who have participated in the program. Get Caught Reading is a nationwide, public service campaign to promote the joy of reading. Celebrities, along with members of Congress, have been photographed 'caught reading' their favorite book or magazine for the advertising campaign.