Illinois Grant Money

For the last several years, we have applied for and received small grants from the state of Illinois. Given the state of the economy, it is good news that the grants for 08-09 came through. The number of dollars is not huge, but it does make a difference by allowing us to buy some extra books each year.

This year at Elizabeth Ide, we have ordered replacement copies of classics and old favorites. They are popular and popular books do get worn out because they circulate a lot. The children like them and, I think, we sometimes get parents or even grandparents interested. It is always a good idea to read to your children and to encourage them to read to you. Share the books!

At Prairieview, series books are very popular. Therefore, we used the grant money to fill in some gaps in our collection. Third, fourth, and fifth graders like to latch on to things that they

read. We like them to be reading as much as possible, so we accomodate their desires as we are able. Of course, we also encourage them to branch out. They are allowed to check three items at a time and they must choose three different things. It is good for them and good for the other patrons in the school. By the way, it doesn't hurt a bit to read to these middle grade students and to listen to them as they read to you. Some very good conversations may be generated.