Boise Bookshelf Project Helps Turn Children Into Book-Owners

Local librarian, Kate Baker believes every kid deserves to own a book that truly speaks to them which is why she has created a new initiative to help children all over the Treasure Valley become book-owners and start their own home libraries. The Boise Bookshelf Project promotes the benefits of book ownership for families that might otherwise have access to such.

All of the books are new or like-new bestsellers, award-winning fan favorites. Hundreds of books were reportedly donated over the summer but that's just to get started. Kate shared on Twitter that, the more appealing books the project has, the families will be reached.

Kids can "shop" for these books online at boisebookshelf.square.site. They aren't really buying anything as the books are all free and there's no limit of books a child can seek out. However, Kate recommends kids only pick the books they really want and if they decide not to keep one, to continue the trend and pass the book on to someone else. Books can then be picked up at North Junior High in downtown Boise or can be delivered after they are "purchased" during check-out.

About 250 books remain in the inventory for The Boise Bookshelf Project. If you would like to help support the cause, there are several ways to do so. You can make a financial contribution, buy books directly from their Amazon wish list, or you can donate books you have on your bookshelf that are new or like-new and are bestsellers that will appeal to teens and young kids.

Kate says she's already passed out many books to kids who are experiencing homelessness, are new to the country and a part of refugee families, and kids whos' families face finical insecurity. According to Kate, "there's nothing quite as cool as being able to tell a wide-eyed kid, 'No, really, they're yours to keep. Take as many as you want. Read them. Share them. Really.'"