The magic of a new First Book

LCSC chapter spreads literacy in region

First Book-LCSC has a simple mission:  to give children from low income families the opportunity to read and own their first new books.  We provide an ongoing supply of new books to children participating in community-based mentoring, tutoring, and family literacy programs.  

Sponsored by the Lewis-Clark Service Corps, First Book-LCSC will be giving free, new, high quality children’s books to literacy programs in Nez Perce, Lewis, Clearwater, Idaho and Asotin counties.  The books are used within the program’s curriculum then given to the kids to take home and keep.  Each child receives one book each month for a year.  First Book-LCSC is currently accepting applications for book grants which will be awarded in October. 

First Book-LCSC is part of a national network of community volunteers who support First Book’s mission. Volunteers from all sectors of the community work to promote and facilitate the distribution of new books.  In the past three years alone, First Book has distributed more than 30 million new books to children in need in communities throughout the United States.

Jana Leachman, coordinator of residence life is the organization’s co-chair along with Colleen Mahoney, former member of the Idaho State Board of Education.

If you’re interested in bringing the gift of literacy to disadvantaged children, contact the Community Warriors Student Volunteer Center at 792-2194 or via e-mail at jgpetersen@lcsc.edu.  You can also stop by the Center in Room 56 of the Sam Glenn Complex.  Office hours are 10-3 Monday through Wednesday and 10-2 on Thursday.