Despite the dreary, rainy day, hundreds of young readers and their parents poured into the Park Theater for a celebration of Dr. Seuss's birthday with a Hats Off to Reading event.

According to event coordinator, Tara Camp Williams, there were about 400 people who attended. There were 15 authors who were showcasing their books and participating in story times.

"It was honestly just great to see so many little ones get excited about reading and books," said Williams.

Williams spoke about all the talented authors in Rhode Island, and how they want to make a difference in this state and it all starts with sharing their books.

Williams recruited her daughter to dress up as the Cat in the Hat, and had her friends working the craft table assisting the children in making their own hats.

The list of authors and the books they shared with the attendees contained varied and different messages within the books themes.

First time author, Ace Aceto, was excited to be part of the day.

"I had a great time meeting other authors and participating in the story time. That was my favorite part of the day, reading my story about my daughter to all the kids," he said.

Aceto also learned about ARIA (Association of RI Authors) which he intends to join.

Williams actually is a member herself, and was able to help spread the word about the event through them.

For the attendees, it was something different than going to an indoor play place or having the kids absorbed by their technology all day.

"My wife is serving oversees presently, and I am a single dad until she comes back, so for me, this was a great way to get the kids out of the house and do something somewhat educational without them thinking it was about learning," said attendee Jack Silver.

His kids are aged 3 and 6, and he was impressed with the selections of books for all reading levels.

"My son liked the books with animals and my daughter liked the ones with lots of pictures," Silver said.

The Park Theater is quickly becoming the place for all new and varied events to take place.

"It was a very special day this past Saturday at The Park Theatre. Hundreds of families joined us to enjoy the works of local authors. Watching all of the smiling faces was special and it inspires our team to curate more and more educational opportunities to inspire our youth here in our direct community. We are very thankful for our producing partner Tara Camp Williams and our team at The Historic Park Theatre for making this day so special. Stay tuned for all of our up and coming family friendly events," said Park owner, Ed Brady.

To get a full list of events, visit their website,  www.TheParkRI.com

Kerri Gaulin; Howie Flies Solo, Greg Charpentier; Ricky’s Big Week , Christine Carr; Corwin and Friends, Denise Grenga; Ocean Motion, Denise Flagg; Klaus’ First Winter, Marisa Iacovone; Brave Rosie, Dana Gambardella; Mama Bear’s Magic, Christina Dinato; The Saddest Dog Finds A Friend, Corey Abreau; Socks, Bill Smith - Adventures of Jimmy the Little Blue Frog, Maryanne Swenson; Appreciation, Jessica Gemma; Fishy, Fishy, Ace Aceto; Maddie’s Loose Tooth, Susan Joyce; Billy the Rescue Dog, Tara Williams; Let Your Smile Shine, Peter Odonell; The Merlins Visit the Fire Station, Candace Breen; Moon Child and Sue Greco; Buddy The New Puppy.

For the authors who did story times, their readings were all well attended and helped expose young readers to different types of storytelling.