Lexia Library Wish Program Grants Title I Educators $16,000+ for 3,350+ Books
BOSTON – An exciting development in the world of education has emerged as Charlotte Brett, the librarian at Antrim Elementary School in New Hampshire, clinched the grand prize of a $4,000 gift certificate in the Lexia Library Wish program. This program, created by Lexia in partnership with the nonprofit First Book, aimed to empower Title I educators by offering them the opportunity to win a total of over $16,000 to enrich their classroom or school libraries with books from the First Book Marketplace. Brett’s incredible win means she now has the financial means to purchase approximately 800 books, a significant boost for her school’s library.
Silver linings were not in short supply as 25 educators were named as silver prize winners, each receiving a $400 First Book Marketplace gift certificate to acquire around 80 books. Furthermore, 74 more educators have been awarded gift certificates worth $40 each.
A Lifeline for Antrim Elementary School
Antrim Elementary School found itself without a librarian throughout 2023, a challenging time that was turned around by Brett’s win in the Lexia Library Wish program. With the prize funds, Brett is determined to revamp the school’s library, recognizing the importance of providing students with access to books, especially those who lack such resources at home.
Bridging Gaps Through Literature
Brett’s vision goes beyond just updating the library; she aims to create a dynamic and diverse collection that exposes her students to the broader world around them. Living in a small community with a high poverty rate, many of Brett’s students have limited opportunities to explore beyond their immediate surroundings. By enhancing the library’s collection, she hopes to open doors for her students and ignite a passion for reading.
Empowering Educators and Students
The Lexia Library Wish program, designed for educators, paraprofessionals, school librarians, and other staff members serving underserved communities, has received overwhelming support, with over 2,500 applicants during the entry period. With the collaboration between Lexia and First Book, more educators like Brett are being empowered to make a lasting impact on their students’ lives through the power of books.
In celebration of Lexia’s 40th anniversary, Nick Gaehde, the President of Lexia, highlighted the importance of this initiative in bringing much-needed books to Title I schools nationwide. By partnering with First Book, Lexia is not just providing books but also fostering a community dedicated to ensuring educational equity for all students.
With a shared commitment to improving literacy and education for underserved communities, both Lexia and First Book are paving the way for a brighter future where every child has access to quality education through the power of books. The impact of this program goes beyond the pages of a book; it’s about shaping young minds and transforming lives.
As we celebrate the success of educators like Charlotte Brett, let’s remember the profound impact that a simple book can have on a child’s life. It’s not just about words on a page; it’s about opening doors, broadening horizons, and instilling a lifelong love of learning. Congratulations to all the winners of the Lexia Library Wish program, may your dedication to enriching young minds continue to inspire us all.
