Spending time with my daughters is always something I enjoy. As they were growing up, one of my favorite activities with them was reading. Like most children, they had their favorites and we could spend the afternoon reading the same book over and over again. I can still remember the words to one of my daughter's favorite books “The Three Little Javelinas” by Susan Lowell. The time we spent reading together was truly invaluable and I encourage all District 2 families to make time to read together.
The Phoenix Public Library system is an incredible resource for our community; it houses 1.9 million items including books, videos, DVDs and CDs, subscribes to 93 information databases and links to 1,000 “best of the best” Web sites. The library sponsors several programs for children, teens and adults in both English and Spanish.
The library's second annual winter reading program, “Catch BookBreath @ Your Phoenix Public Library” encourages children to spend time reading or listening to books. Now through February 28, simply visit any of the city's 13 branches to sign up for the program. In District 2, visit the Juniper Branch Library at 1825 W. Union Hills Drive .
Everyone who signs up for the winter reading program will receive a free book bag – a great way to tote around your child's favorite books. Your child can win prizes by keeping track of the time spent reading or listening to books; they can earn bonus prizes when you read together as a family.
By reading, your child will increase their vocabulary and gain valuable reading skills necessary to do well in school. Building a solid foundation of literacy skills during childhood has a far reaching impact on your child's future academic and occupational success.
I would also encourage you to donate any extra books magazines, videos, CDs or DVDs that you may have to your local library. The Phoenix Public Library welcomes your donations of materials in good condition. Some materials may be added to the collection, others will be sold by the Friends of the Phoenix Public Library, with proceeds benefiting the library system. Your donations may be tax deductible, so be sure to ask for a receipt. Donations can be made at any Phoenix Public Library. Appraisals for the value of donated materials are not provided .
For more information about the Phoenix Public Library or its programs, visit
www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org or call 602-262-4636.
Don't hesitate to call my office if you have any questions about the library or any other programs in District 2. You are also invited to join me at my monthly Issues & Info breakfasts and learn about topics that impact your neighborhood and family. Take the opportunity to ask questions about issues that are important to you. The next one is 7 a.m. Friday, Feb. 20 at Jillian's at Desert Ridge. Please call my office for more details. I hope to see you there.
Phoenix City Councilwoman Peggy Neely represents District 2, which encompasses most of northeast Phoenix. She can be reached at (602) 262-7445 or via e-mail at council.district.2@phoenix.gov.
