Thought Leaders & Readers: Brooklyn Borough President Reynoso, seen here at a ribbon cutting for the East Flatbush Library, has aligned with more than 2,300 schools, libraries and bookstores nationwide in his recognition of Children’s Book Week, May 6 to May 12, the longest-running celebration of books for young people and the joy of reading.

This week, the Borough President also offered his thoughts to Our Time Press’ on Child Mental Health Awareness Month and recent crackdowns on social media distractions.

In a message to parents and guardians, Brooklyn Borough President Reynoso, stated to Our Time Press, “As a parent, I know all too well that raising our children in a digital world can be stressful.

Phones and tablets have paved the way for many advancements in our society, but oftentimes, children are glued to their screens for hours on end.

Thankfully, as Brooklyn parents, we have so many spaces which give our children the opportunity to enrich their minds.

“Whether it’s getting lost in a book at your local Brooklyn Public Library branch or playing outside at your local park, I’m proud to represent a borough that gives our young people so many reasons to put down their phones and explore their community.

As we envision our city’s future, we need to prioritize investing in these spaces, keeping our libraries open, connecting kids to librarians, and getting great books into the hands of our youngest residents.”