U.S. Rep. Nick Rahall, D-WV, praised Princeton student, Laken Autrey, for winning  Library of Congress' 2008 Letters About Literature competition for the State of West Virginia.

“Reading is something that cannot be over-encouraged,” said Rahall. “I am thrilled that Laken undertook this educational odyssey and proud that the Library of Congress recognized her for her work.” 

The Letters About Literature competition is a reading and writing program sponsored by the Library of Congress’ “Center for the Book” to encourage a love of literature in our Nation’s youth. As part of the program, participants write a letter to a favorite author, describing how that author’s work somehow changed their view of the world or themselves. 

“For children, books can be the doorway to the future and a window to the past,” said Rahall.  “I encourage every parent, teacher, and student in West Virginia to follow Laken’s example. Reading a book can lead to an adventure the entire family can enjoy.”