UNION, Miss. (Queen City Newsfeed), The Dollar General Literacy Foundation awarded the Kemper-Newton Regional Library System a $3,500 grant to support its youth literacy program, according to a Facebook post from the library system.
The library system will use the money to buy new books for young readers from kindergarten through 12th grade. In addition, the grant is part of more than $4.1 million the foundation recently awarded to nonprofits, libraries and schools across the country.
New Books for Every Branch
Library Director Destiny Alexander said the library system is honored to receive the grant. According to Alexander, the new books will support guided reading sessions, interactive literacy programs and reading skill activities at every library location.
“This will support improved literacy skills, promote a lifelong love of reading, and enhance engagement with library programs,” Alexander said.
The library system operates five branches in DeKalb, Decatur, Newton, Scooba and Union. Besides books, the branches offer free computer and internet access, free Wi-Fi, educational programs and community resources for residents of all ages.
Foundation Focuses on Access
Denine Torr, executive director of the Dollar General Literacy Foundation, said access to books and learning tools can help students for years to come. She added that the foundation is grateful to support the work of local libraries and schools.
Each year, the foundation awards grants to nonprofits, schools and libraries located within 15 miles of a Dollar General store or distribution center. These grants support adult, family, summer and youth literacy programs.
The foundation also runs a student referral program. Through this program, people who want to learn to read, speak English or prepare for the high school equivalency exam can find free help nearby. Residents can request a referral online or pick up a Learn to Read brochure at the register of any Dollar General store.
Since 1993, the foundation has awarded nearly $297 million in grants. As a result, more than 26 million people have taken their first steps toward literacy, a general education diploma or English proficiency.
A full list of grant recipients is available at www.dgliteracy.org.
