Books 2 U encourages children to read for personal enjoyment and to become library users. Library staff and volunteers bring high-interest paperbacks to classrooms and other sites that serve children. During their visits, they present short, high-energy "booktalks" designed to excite children about the books. The booktalkers also share information about Library Connect and promote library services.
Started in 1995, this program serves children of all ages by maintaining collections of high-interest fiction and nonfiction books that are circulated through the various locations the program serves.
Services
School Visits
Highly trained staff and volunteers visit selected qualifying 3rd-, 4th- and 5th- grade classrooms. Schools are prioritized with an equity model that incorporates race, language, poverty, and test scores. Each of the schools in the program receives a visit and a classroom set of books, four times throughout the school year.
Summer Program
Library staff partner with community organizations who offer free lunch and summer programs. Staff visit various locations that serve high priority children — from babies to teens. The children can choose a gift book and participate in the library's Summer Reading program.
Goals
- To encourage students to read for personal enjoyment and to "practice" the reading skills acquired in school.
- To reach elementary school students in priority schools and connect them to library resources.
- To promote library services and programs for children and their families.