JOHNSON CITY, Temm. -- Do you have a favorite children's book?
If so, why not share the story with a local child?
ETSU Physicians and Associates - Pediatrics is currently accepting
donated children's books for a new literacy center that will provide
books to children waiting to see the doctor. The clinic is an
affiliation of East Tennessee State University's James H. Quillen
College of Medicine.
To be accepted for donation, books should have no markings or tears and
not require batteries or small parts unacceptable to children under the
age of three. Books dealing with religious themes or subjects such as
divorce, death, or violence will not be accepted.
Items particularly needed are children's books in Spanish as well as
multicultural literature and sensory texts with "touch and experience"
features. Caldecott Award books are also desired, as well as
magazine-style bookshelves.
"We want to foster a love for reading, but not every kid has access to
books," said Dr. Jessica Tuberty, a pediatrician and project organizer.
"In fact, here in Tennessee, 26 percent of very young children live in
poverty, and only one in 300 low-income families have age-appropriate
reading materials, and there are many barriers that prevent them from
obtaining books."
Tuberty said the staff is also counseling parents about the importance
of reading in developing intellect, achieving success in school, and
ultimately becoming adult readers.
A drop box for the books is available at ETSU Physicians and Associates -
Pediatrics, located at 325 N. State of Franklin Road across from Johnson
City Medical Center. For more information, call (423) 439-6222.
