Literacy Lambton is aiming to put a book in the hands of local children and youth this holiday season to foster a love of reading.
The organization's annual Give-a-Book campaign is officially underway.
Until December 20, Literacy Lambton and its partners will be collecting donations of new, unwrapped books.
"We are looking for books that range from babies to teens," said Literacy Lambton Executive Director Tracy Pound. "The most needed ages tend to fluctuate from year to year. This year, we've already had one agency request a very large amount for teens, so I'm thinking maybe off the top we might need teen books, but definitely that zero to five category is pretty key."
Last year, 4,800 new books were donated through 42 frontline community partners.
Pound said they work closely with community partners to determine which books best suit the children and youth they see.
"I just read a study the other week, through Scholastic, and it is actually staggering how even just the gift of one book can inspire a child to be a lifelong reader," Pound said.
For those who want to give the gift of a book, donations can be dropped off at Literacy Lambton's office, located inside the Lochiel Kiwanis Community Centre in room 103.
"You can either purchase or drop off books to our partners, which are Coles in Lambton Mall as well as The Book Keeper," Pound said. "The Book Keeper offers 20 per cent off of any books that are purchased and donated right to Give-a-Book, so that's an extra bonus."
Pound said staff at Coles and The Book Keeper can also provide recommendations for which titles may be more popular with different age groups.
Donations of $20 or more can also be made online through Literacy Lambton's website. https://www.literacylambton.org/donate/
