STEAC STORIES
“I’m so excited to read”
In early June, STEAC launched its Book Giveaway for Low-Income Children event at Marguerite Montgomery Elementary School in Davis. More than 1,400 books were distributed to over 100 students from grades K-6 to take home for summer reading. Furthermore, all 18 classroom libraries were enhanced with additional books. This event was made possible by funding from the Lynne Gertmenian Rumery Memorial Fund and supported by donations from Friends of the Davis Public Library.
“I’m so excited to read!” exclaimed a fourth grade student while choosing their books. Nora Brazil, the school’s librarian, mentioned how grateful she was that students in need were able to participate in this event and obtain free books.
This event served as a way to bring books to children whose parents might not have the financial means to purchase additional reading materials for summer reading. Summer learning loss is a known phenomenon that can occur in school children throughout all grades levels during summer vacation. Research indicates that this loss is greater for low-income students oftentimes due to unequal access to learning opportunities at a young age. STEAC hopes that this event helps bridge this gap in students’ learning while providing a fun form of entertainment.