COTTAGE GROVE – Kiddos walked into their school library with wide eyes and gaping mouths as they looked at a spread of colorful children’s books across four tables. These books wouldn’t have to be returned like the kids’ usual library books.
Last Thursday, Dorena Elementary students in grades K-2 chose five of their favorite books during the eighth annual BookFest event hosted by United Way of Lane County. According to Erin Barnhart, director of marketing and communications, UW and the Early Childhood Hub of Lane County expect to distribute books to over 1,600 students at 14 schools.
“We use research to prioritize schools that have the most opportunity to improve their literacy scores,” said Colleen Hackett, United Way’s volunteer engagement manager. Other schools in surrounding areas that participated in BookFest this year include London Elementary in Cottage Grove, and Elizabeth Page, Marcola, and Thurston Elementary Schools in Springfield.
A few dozen kids perused the wide selection of books while volunteers helped guide them to some of their preferred ones. “Part of what’s shown to encourage literacy is that autonomy of choice,” Hackett said.
Kids took their time choosing their favorites. Spanish and bilingual books were also up for grabs.
“We make a big point to choose really popular, engaging titles for the kids. We looked back … to see what was popular and we used that to help inform our purchase,” Hackett said.
