Book drive set at Klager Elementary School

submitted by Melissa Yekulis

Klager Elementary School will host a gently-used book drive the week of May 10.

The books collected will be used to help restock the “Book Fairy” program for the students, ages infant through second grade. The books will be quarantined through the summer months before they are shared with the students.

Each month, each of the classes at Klager, MECC, and the Co-op preschool will be visited by the “Book Fairy.” Children will be able to choose a book of their choice to take home and keep. Included with each book is an article with age-appropriate tips for parents on how to support reading in the home.

The Book Fairy started small during the 2016 school year in response to the Third Grade Reading Law and a desire to increase a love of reading for kindergarten children at home. Since that time, it has expanded beyond kindergarten to first and second grade, then MECC. Next year, the Co-op will be joining in the fun.

Since its inception, the Book Fairy has filled Klager children’s bookcases and has given thousands of books a second chance at a new home with a child who will love it and read it again and again, until it is time to go to another child.

Books are being collected the entire week of May 10. Books can be dropped off at the entrances of Klager or MECC. This year, the Manchester District Library has also graciously offered to step in and provide support throughout the year. The library will be collecting books on behalf of the Book Fairy program the last week of every month. Books should be gently used and in good condition.

The program needs books for children ages infant through grade three, to support higher readers in second grade.

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by Marsha Chartrand

Marsha Johnson Chartrand, a founder, writer, and copy editor with the Manchester Mirror, is a 50-year resident of Manchester. She has a long history of volunteer and community involvement.