Jacksonville, FL — They say it's all about getting books into the hands of children.
Clay County Schools is hosting a 'First Book' event Saturday, October 21, where the goal is to give away 40,000 books to teachers, parents, and students.
Renna Lee Paiva, the president of the Clay County Education Association, says they've worked the past 8 months to bring this event to the county and they don't want any leftover books.
"This program will provide every student in our school district the opportunity to select and connect with literacy inside and outside of our classrooms. In order for our community to thrive, we must build a culture where literacy is the foundation of learning," explains Paiva.
Every Clay County parent will be allowed to take between 10 and 20 books per child. Every teacher with Clay County Schools can take between 50 and 100 books.
Paiva says the books include picture books, story books, adventure books, and other books that interest children from birth up to 18-years-old. They'll also be giving away bookmarks and journals for children to fill out.
We're told the event is underwritten by the American Federation of Teachers, a national union.
The event is being held at Green Cove Springs Junior High School, located at 1220 Bonaventure Avenue in Green Cove Springs.
Teachers are invited to pick out books between 9 am and 10 am. Starting at 10 am, students and their families will also be welcome.
The event will run through 4 pm.
40,000 books have officially arrived!
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[ @FirstBook ]
[ pic.twitter.com/z0TmixVMFM ]
— Clay County Schools (@oneclayschools)
[ October 20, 2017 ]
Almost there!
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[ pic.twitter.com/XN8kj3HuYz ]
— Clay County Schools (@oneclayschools)
[ October 20, 2017 ]