Book It!

The Appalachian Regional Library System, serving Ashe, Watauga and Wilkes counties, was selected to receive 100 children’s picture books from the Brownstone Book Fund, a private nonprofit foundation based in New York City.

The books, including many old classics and new favorites, range from prekindergarten through early elementary reading levels.

Every year, the Brownstone Book Fund selects a state to receive book donations, and North Carolina was selected for 2011. Seventy-five libraries in the Tar Heel state received children’s books through the foundation, which is interested in fostering early reading, a love of books and encouraging parents and children to read together.

“The public library of my youth gave me an addiction to books that has enriched my life and my wish, with this collection, is to give this experience and pleasure to many other young people,” wrote Diane Brownstone, director of the book fund, in a letter to the Library.

“We are delighted to receive this donation, especially in a time of dwindling book budgets, and appreciate the generosity of the Brownstone family that allows us to share these beautiful books with the children in our communities,” said director of libraries Louise Humphrey.

Although the Brownstone Book Fund collection was divided among all libraries in the ARL system, books in the collection are available for checkout by anyone with an Appalachian Regional Library card. Many of the Brownstone books are currently featured in displays in the libraries.

For addresses, directions and contact information of all ARL libraries, visit http://www.arlibrary.org.