Research shows that the best predictor of academic loss or gain over the summer is whether or not a child reads.  For low-income families with less access to books and libraries, reading achievement declines an average of three months over summer break.  This loss accumulates to two years by middle school. (Bridging the Summer Reading Gap, Instructor, May/June 2003)

The Giving Circle is partnering with Wright to Read for a fifth year to provide 1200 Alexandria children with three new or gently used books to enjoy during summer break. Many thanks to those of you who have already donated books and funds to support this Book Drive through our recent Baskets for Books events.  Couldn’t make it to one of these? There are three ways to help provide books and give these children an academic boost next fall:

1. Donate gift-quality used books appropriate for Kindergarten through 6th grades. You may drop your books off at Wright to Read located at 414 N. Washington St., Ste 101 in Old Town Alexandria.
2. Donate new books.Please see this year’s Summer Reading Wish List for a list of new books needed.  Local children’s bookseller Hooray for Books at 1555 King Street is offering 15% discounts off your Wright to Read purchases. Or you may place a phone order with Hooray for Books at 703.548.4092 and they will deliver your order directly to Wright to Read.
3. Make a monetary donation to support the Book Drive. Wright to Read will use all money received to buy books for summer reading packs. Make your check payable to ACT/The Giving Circle, write “Summer Book Drive” in the memo line and mail it to Christine Labrecque at P.O. Box 1627, Alexandria VA 22313.

Thank you for your support! Any questions? Please email Christine Labrecque.

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