The following article was submitted by Tony Plekan, a Public Service Associate at the Manitowoc Public Library.
There is nothing like sitting down and opening the pages of a brand new book. Unfortunately, many kids do not have access to books of their own, but we can help change that.
Manitowoc Public Library is running our “Best Gift Ever” campaign to provide books for the children of families in need in our community. From November 8 through December 5, we will be collecting new children’s books. Working in conjunction with local nonprofits, the books will be given kids across Manitowoc County.
Reading has a tremendous impact on childhood development. Reading helps expand knowledge, sharpen memory, and stimulate imagination. There is something special about owning your own book. It has a remarkable impact on a child’s self-esteem. These families are going through very difficult times, but you would be surprised how much of a positive impact owning a book can have for a kid. This small gesture can help give children confidence to face these challenges and make their holiday a little more cheerful.
Here’s How You Can Help:
Stop by the Manitowoc Public Library between November 8 and December 5 with your new unwrapped children’s books. We will have a collection box by the Service Desk when you first enter the Library. By placing your books in this box, you will have directly contributed to improving the lives of children in our area.
Tony Plekan
You can also make a monetary donation towards the book drive should you feel so moved. If you decide to make an additional donation, please make the check out to “Friends of Manitowoc Public Library, and take it to the Service Desk. Your financial donation will go to ordering new books for these families in need, so please turn it in no later than November 30; that way we’ll still have time to order the additional books.
Children’s books of all different reading levels, subjects, and styles are encouraged. We are hoping to compile a vast collection of Picture Books, Chapter Books, and Young Adult books. Books on dinosaurs, superheroes, exploration, mathematics—all topics are welcome. These nonprofits serve kids of all ages, so the greater the variety the better able we will be to match kids with a book they will love. Manitowoc Public Library thanks you for your support and we hope you will join us in this effort to give back to the youth of Manitowoc County.
Our Book Donation Partners:
All donated books will be given to three local nonprofits for distribution—Incourage, Hope House, and the Salvation Army.
Incourage – 300 E Reed Ave, Manitowoc, WI 54220
Incourage provides shelter for individuals and their families who have experienced domestic abuse. They provide a safe space for families to begin to recover both physically and mentally.
Hope House – 1000 S 35th St, Manitowoc, WI 54220
Hope House provides shelter and support to individuals and their families who are experiencing homelessness. They provide a variety of supportive/educational programs and can help individuals find more permanent living accommodations.
The Salvation Army of Manitowoc County – 415 N 6th St, Manitowoc, WI 54220
The Salvation Army of Manitowoc County provides residents with physical necessities (clothes, food, etc.) and supportive programs.
Over the holidays, these organizations will put the books you donate in the hands of our community’s youth. Kids who, through no fault of their own, find themselves in dire situations. “Best Gift Ever” is one small way we can help these children gain a semblance of normalcy, boost their spirits, and encourage a lifelong love of reading.
