"Watching our students read and grow attached to the book inspires us to look for more ways to incorporate other works of literature into our curriculum. For many of our children, this has become not only their favorite book, but a book they will share with family and friends."
–Melissa Oppen and Peter Enns, teachers at Northern High School
Reading: A Gift for Life
When a child opens a book, a whole new world opens up. And when that child can call that book her own, that world becomes even bigger.
Each year The Children's Bookstore gives thousands of children in Baltimore City a tremendous gift. These children each receive a book of their own, enlarging their classroom experience and helping to foster a love of reading they will carry with them for a lifetime.
"The best part is that we get to keep our book and read it as many times as we want." –Katherine, Hamilton Elementary/ Middle School
Important New Guidelines for Applications
Applications
The Foundation is receiving a record number of applications. In order to allow the staff to review and process them:
- Applications must be received at least 6 weeks prior to the start of the unit for which the books are being requested. Any applications received with less lead time will not be considered.
- Applications must be received no later than October 15th for fall and January 31st for spring . The earlier that applications are received in the semester, the more likely they will be considered.
Teachers will be contacted by email letting them know the status of their application. Books will need to be picked up within one week of notification that they have arrived.
Good Teaching and Learning Begin with Fine Literature
Through The Children's Bookstore Educational program, teachers apply for books to be used to enhance their lessons. After classroom use, the books go home with the children to begin a library of their own. The heartwarming letters from these students and teachers speak for themselves–they are thrilled, and so are their students. The enthusiasm from the program extends home to where the children share their experience with the entire family. And, the foundation also advises teachers on appropriate literature for their students.
Fundraising Efforts
The Children's Bookstore Educational Foundation receives funding through a number of corporations and private foundations throughout Baltimore. We also rely on individual donations to enhance the program. In 2002, The Children's Bookstore Educational Foundation placed its endowment at the Baltimore Community Foundation to ensure its permanence.
Your support through financial donations will make a difference to many children and teachers across Baltimore. Donations can be sent to The Children's Bookstore Educational Foundation, 737 Deepdene Road, Baltimore MD 21210 or to the Baltimore Community Foundation (specify The Children's Bookstore Education Foundation) 2 East Read Street, Baltimore MD 21202.
"Although technology is the future, in my opinion, absolutely nothing replaces a book in a child's hands." –Lance, parent of student at Francis Scott Key School #76
