Increasing reading through extended access to books

One of the most important skills we can give our children is the power of reading. With no local library within district boundaries, students are limited in their access to books. Summertime is a critical time for students to stay academically engaged, and there is no easier way to stay engaged than through books. Books are convenient and can be used as a means of entertainment, whether in the car, outside under a shady tree, or even poolside – books can travel with us. Therefore, the United School District has taken on several projects to increase student access to books.

This summer, the United Title I Program sponsored a summer library program. This free library service was open to all students and families. Summer Library operated each Monday from July 8 through August 12. Each day students were greeted by Mrs. Lorraine Allman, the district librarian, who helped the students to select a few books for them to check-out for the week. Additionally, participating students received a small gift each week in addition to their take-home book selection. Even the United Lion Mascot stopped by to read to students. The number of participating people grew steadily throughout the program, with an average of 22 visitors per day and over 350 books read.

United School District partnered with Evergreen After School Club to provide a free outside library box. The library box is available for all students and families and book selections are updated periodically.