A unique partnership, Scouting for Books, has been formed between Marin’s Boy and Girl Scout troops and the Book Exchange of Marin. During April, Marin scouts will collect gently used books from their homes, friends, and neighbors, which will be donated to the Book Exchange. Each year, the Book Exchange provides over 20,000 free books to over 2,000 elementary and middle school students from Marin’s most under-resourced communities.
“Book drives are the lifeblood of our all-volunteer organization,” stated Bruce Burtch, Board President. “Each year, we see an increase in the need for good quality used books, so we are thrilled with this partnership.”
The Book Exchange of Marin promotes child literacy, encourages a love of reading, and works to ensure that all under-resourced Marin elementary and middle school children have access to good books.
“Our scouts recognize the importance of providing under-resourced students with their own quality books at home. We are thrilled to participate in Scouting for Books,” said Michael Dybeck, Scout Executive & CEO, Marin Council, Boy Scouts of America.”
Unfortunately, many Marin students visiting the Book Exchange read below and sometimes well below their grade level. An American Educational Research Association study found that “a student who can’t read at grade level by the 3rdgrade is four times less likely to graduate by age 19 than a child who reads proficiently by that time.” The work of the Book Exchange directly impacts this sad equation by focusing on raising the literacy levels of Marin’s under-resourced students, thus directly addressing this inequity.
“The Girl Scouts of Marin County are excited to support this partnership and important book drive. We understand the need for good books to help raise the literacy levels of our under-resourced students.” Lisa Pryor – Girl Scouts of Mission Rafael board member.
You can support Scouting for Books by collecting gently used elementary and middle school books in your home and contacting a local Boy or Girl Scout troop for a pickup.
For further information, please visit www.bookexchangemarin.org
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