Nebraska Athletics and Linked2Literacy Partner to Boost Youth Reading

The partnership aims to increase third grade literacy to 75% by 2030.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Nebraska Athletics has teamed up with the Linked2Literacy organization to host the annual 'Go Big Read' event, part of a week-long celebration to promote literacy among youth in Lincoln. The event featured appearances by University of Nebraska-Lincoln cheerleaders and mascot Herbie Husker to get kids excited about reading. This partnership comes after the Nebraska Department of Education received a $55 million grant in 2024 to improve literacy rates across the state.

Why it matters

Improving early childhood literacy is a key priority for Nebraska, as research shows strong reading skills by third grade are crucial for future academic success. This partnership between Nebraska Athletics and Linked2Literacy aims to engage the community and leverage the popularity of Husker sports to inspire a love of reading among local youth.

The details

The 'Go Big Read' event took place on Tuesday at the Eiseley Branch Library and Gere Branch Library, with cheerleaders and Herbie Husker making appearances to encourage kids to read. The week-long literacy celebration culminates on Thursday with a free public event called 'Reading through Art: The House on Mango Street' at the Sheldon Art Museum.

  • In 2024, the Nebraska Department of Education received a $55 million grant to improve literacy.
  • The 'Go Big Read' event was held on Tuesday, February 24, 2026.
  • The literacy celebration culminates on Thursday, February 26, 2026.

The players

Nebraska Athletics

The athletic department of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, which is partnering with Linked2Literacy to promote youth reading.

Linked2Literacy

A literacy organization that has teamed up with Nebraska Athletics for the annual 'Go Big Read' event and broader efforts to increase third grade reading proficiency in the state.

Nebraska Department of Education

Received a $55 million grant in 2024 to improve literacy rates across the state.

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The takeaway

This collaboration between Nebraska Athletics and Linked2Literacy demonstrates the power of community partnerships in driving literacy initiatives and engaging youth through popular local institutions like college sports. By leveraging the Huskers' brand and resources, the organizations aim to inspire a love of reading and make progress towards the state's goal of improving third grade literacy rates.