Dr. Seuss [POLL] saluted across the U.S.

(CBS) Younger generations are not the only ones celebrating the legendary Dr. Seuss'  birthday on Wednesday.

First lady Michelle Obama marked the day by reading the children's classic "Green Eggs and Ham" at 11 a.m. at the Library of Congress, in a ceremony also marking the National Education Association's Annual "Read Across America Day."

VIDEO: Dr. Seuss' 100th birthday

Last year, Mrs. Obama read "The Cat in the Hat" to a group of more than 200 children who wore red-and-white-striped stovepipe hats, similar to the one worn by the main character of the story.

Mrs. Obama helped kick off NEA's 13th Annual "Read Across America Day," originally created on March 2, 1998, to motivate reading in children. What a better way to celebrate reading than on the birthday of the beloved children's author Dr. Seuss, also known as Theodor Seuss Geisel.

According to the L.A. Times, Mrs. Obama was joined by actress Jessica Alba, Green Bay Packers widespread receiver, Donald Driver, U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan and NEA President Dennis Van Roekel.

Seuss, who died at age 87 in 1991, inspired countless children through his mysterious tales, some of which became major films. From loyal elephants in "Horton Hears a Who," to angry creatures such as the Grinch, Seuss thrilled and delighted children while teaching them moral lessons.

Fublishers  are also joining in the celebration. Random House Publishing Group is featuring a package of Read Across America Day materials available at Seussville.com. IPhone users can enjoy discounted Dr. Seuss e-book apps in addition to a free Dr. Seuss Happy Birthday to You camera app.