For years, Lansing Loves to Read has supported local literacy initiatives. According to Laura Morse, Director of Lansing Loves to Read, “We try to get books into the hands of children wherever they may be. For example, while waiting at local restaurants, dropping paperwork off at town hall… or visiting community spaces.”
Morse’s team makes books more accessible, in part, by installing “book baskets and shelves in local businesses and community centers”. While this “bookshelf project” was impactful, Morse’s team wanted to take this initiative one step further: By creating opportunities for children to store books in their own homes.
According to Morse, “we understand that not every child has books or a designated space to keep them. We find that bookshelves are key [to promoting children’s literacy].”
To support this project, Lansing Loves to Read sought funds from Sustainable Finger Lakes’ Neighborhood Mini-Grant program. “The funds are helpful in getting this bookshelf project off the ground. We are repurposing shelves that may have gone to the landfill. We are also working with the Lansing Lyons Club to refurbish them and get them into the hands of those who need them.”
Lansing Loves to Read is entering an exciting new chapter, and is looking to partner with local groups to “bring books and a love for reading to as many kids [as possible].” To learn more about their organization, please visit their Facebook page.
To learn more about how to make your community project a reality with a Neighborhood Mini-Grant, please contact Sasha Paris (sasha@sustainablefingerlakes.org) or visit our website.
