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Library Putting Books in Kids' HandsBy Jen Thomas - December 07, 2007
 | | Children's librarian Marion Grillon holds some of the books that will distributed to children. |
NORTH ADAMS - North County kids are in for a special treat, courtesy of the North Adams Public Library.
Starting this month, the library will be giving away books to children of all ages as part of "Book Bonanza," a program aimed at encouraging area children to read from at a young age. From picture books for the little ones to chapter books for the older crowd, Book Bonanza wants to target a wide audience.
"The idea is to get children in the library and reading," said Marion Grillon, children's librarian. "We're trying to entice kids who don't usually go to the library to come."
Made possible through a $7,000 Alice Shaver Foundation grant, Book Bonanza allows area youth to participate in special activities offered through the library and then choose their own book.
Book Bonanza will begin with a Christmas ornament workshop on Thursday, Dec. 13, 6:30 p.m. followed by a special visit by Santa on Saturday, Dec. 15, at 11.
Grillon sought out books that might be appealing to boys. |
"This is just the beginning," said Grillon. "I still haven't worked out all the ways we're going to distribute the books."
Citing studies that confirm that children who are read to at an early age are more likely to be better students, Grillon emphasized the importance of getting children to start up their own libraries. According to Jim Trelease, author of "The Read-Aloud Handbook," "Reading aloud to children improves their reading, writing, speaking, listening – and, best of all, their attitudes about reading."
Even after children are able to read for themselves, experts recommend an adult still continue taking time to read aloud.
"Because adults have a better vocabulary and are better able to read through the material, kids can still learn through listening. You're never too old to be read to," said Grillon.
The North Adams Public Library also used the Shaver funds to purchase custom-made bookshelves for picture books in the children's section of the library.
The best part was that the funds just fell into the library's lap, said Grillon. "You can't apply for funding. They just give it to you."
Some of the books will given out at events; others might have to be 'earned' by participating in activities. |
The Alice Shaver Foundation has donated to a number of local organizations, including the Milne Public Library in Williamstown.
"I don't even know who Alice Shaver is," said Grillon. "I'm just really happy they gave us the funding."
For more information, contact Grillon at 413-662-3133. |
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