MEXICO – At noon next Wednesday, nearly 400 students and staff at Mountain Valley Middle School will join in a worldwide effort to set a record for the largest number of people reading Maine author E.B. White’s “Charlotte’s Web” at the same time.

The idea to take part in the effort came from librarian Amy Ryder.

“We are trying to promote the book. It’s such a wonderful story, and it’s nice for a new generation of kids to know about,” she said Wednesday afternoon.

The attempt to get into the Guinness Book of World Records is sponsored by Walden Media, the company behind the new movie of “Charlotte’s Web.”

Ryder, however, said she is promoting reading the book. To add to the fun, some of the staff and students will be dressing as their favorite character from the book.

As of Tuesday, according to a Web site maintained by Walden Media, 180,000 people in hospitals, schools, senior centers, homes and libraries from around the world have agreed to participate, said Ryder.

Ryder said the book, published in 1952, will be used by middle school teachers in educational activities including Maine studies and Maine authors.

Eighth-grader Kyle Blodgett of Rumford said he thinks the Guinness Book of World Records is awesome.

“All the little kids around the world will hear it at the same time,” he said.

The story centers on Wilbur, a runt piglet, who is saved by a small girl, Fern, then later saved again by Charlotte, a spider. Wilbur returns the favor by helping to raise three of Charlotte’s baby spiders when she can no longer do it herself.

“The book teaches friendship and tolerance,” said Ryder.