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Library is looking for a few good used books
Chris Clegg
South Peace News
Anyone having a few books at home in good condition may want to consider donating them to the High Prairie Municipal Library.
Kayla Killoran, assistant librarian – program coordinator, has started the Bonny Books program which helps children read better and subsequently develop better learning skills.
“We want to get books into the hands of every child in the region,” says Killoran.
A similar program in Exshaw, AB has resulted in over 22,000 books being placed in children’s hands up to Grade 8. Learning at schools immediately improved.
The municipal library is supporting Killoran in her efforts to jump-start the program locally.
“They are supplying repair materials,” says Killoran, adding she needs over 2,000 books to start the program. Books can be stored at the library until they are ready to be dispersed.
“We’d like to begin delivery in September,” says Killoran.
The books to be donated must be in reasonable condition because of the high cost to repair.
“We want the kids to think they are new books,” says Killoran, adding they don’t want a child to receive a tattered book; rather, one they can be proud of.
Killoran’s goal is to give books away at St. Andrew’s School, High Prairie Elementary School, Peavine Bishop Routhier School, Joussard School and East Prairie Hillview School. Books would also be placed in ambulances and hospital rooms.
“I don’t know if we’ll be able to do it all at once, we might have to do it month by month.”
It is proven that children who own books do better academically. Also, if books are in the home, children are far more likely to consider reading as a leisure activity. Literacy is one of the most important indicators of success, socially and economically.
Bonny Books was started by a woman named Bonny, who was an assistant teacher. She tried to get a little boy to start reading at home but he had no books. She also volunteered at the Exshaw Bighorn Library, where staff decided to help start the program.
Some children who receive books are also quick to help.
“One little boy has a library at home,” says Killoran. “He collects them, he comes to the library and he helps.”
Books will be gratefully accepted at the library during business hours.
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