Maria Salvadore

Biography

Maria Salvadore is Reading Rockets’ consultant for children’s literature and literacy. She leads parent workshops for Ready To Learn (RTL) at WETA Public Broadcasting in Washington, D.C. Conducted in English and Spanish, the RTL workshops explain how to use PBS children’s television programs to enhance literacy skills and prepare young children for success in school.

Maria was the 2019 recipient of the Distinguished Service Award from the Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC).

Maria is an adjunct faculty member at the University of Maryland, reviewer for School Library Journal and Capitol Choices, and former member of the American Library Association’s Notable Children’s Book Committee. Maria is an active member of the Children’s Book Guild of Washiongton, D.C. She was previously coordinator of children’s services for the District of Columbia Public Library system and Cambridge (MA) Public Library. She has also worked with the Kennedy Center’s education department, Reading Is Fundamental, and the Catholic Charities Parenting Program.

Maria has chaired or served on various book award committees including the Washington Post/Children’s Book Guild Nonfiction Award, the Boston Globe/Horn Book Awards, Golden Kite, and the Caldecott Committee. She is the co-author, with Susan Hepler, of Books Kids Will Talk About.