The following story was submitted by MPL Public Services Librarian Tony Plekan.
Every moment a child spends reading, they are enhancing their imagination and learning about the world around them. Owning a book also does wonders for a child’s sense of self-worth. Unfortunately, not every kid can afford a book of their own. Manitowoc Public Library is conducting our annual “Best Gift Ever” campaign to get books into the hands of disadvantaged Manitowoc County kids.
Manitowoc Public Library’s Best Gift Ever book drive runs November 3 through December 5. We are asking for your help to collect donations of new, unwrapped children’s books for kids who are in need.
In 2024, nearly 500 books were donated to Best Gift Ever. We greatly appreciate everyone who contributed and hope that we can give away even more books this year!
How You Can Help
- Bring a new, unwrapped Children’s Book to Manitowoc Public Library anytime from November 3 through December 5
- All types of books are welcome! Picture Books, Chapter Books, and don’t forget about Teens who would enjoy a graphic novel or young adult book. Any book you feel a kid or teenager would love is the right book to donate!
- The books must be new. We want to give these kids the encouragement that comes with having something that is truly theirs from the get-go.
- Financial donations are also accepted.
- For checks, please make them out to “Friends of Manitowoc Public Library” and write “Best Gift Ever” in the “Notes” field.
Everything donated to Best Gift Ever will be distributed to three Manitowoc County nonprofit organizations:
- InCourage
- Lakeshore Foster Family and Friends
- The Salvation Army of Manitowoc County
These organizations, in turn, will give out these books over the holiday season. These fine organizations do remarkable work, especially with our youth. Your generous gift will directly benefit children in our area.
These kids are in such tough situations through no fault of their own. Books have a remarkable way of helping us through difficult times. Let’s work together to collect as many books as we can to give to our community’s youth!
We thank you in advance for your generosity and support!