Troy Elementary - Bucks for Books

This Donation will buy a book for Troy Elementary in Troy. Their librarian says "The use of and access to our school library plays a crucial role in every aspect of our students’ education, and goes a long way in mitigating obstacles that many of our students face.
The simple attainment of reading materials through our school library increases vocabulary development and academic success. Many of our students do not have access to reading materials at home, and if they do, they are not of the appropriate grade level. Purchasing early reader series such as Pete the Cat or Bob Books which our library does not currently have, is an example of how Bucks for Books would help our library.
The increase of reading frequency through our library Storytime not only motivates our students to read, but also, engages listening, participation, and cooperation skills. Updating our library collection to offer “never seen before” books is another example of how Bucks for Books could make a huge impact for our library in keeping our collection new, exciting, and relevant.
Our library strives to provide winter break and summer reading programs that provide a link for parental involvement. Overcoming the obstacles of work conflicts, childcare needs, time limitations, and even the lack of awareness regarding reading opportunities for our students is an ongoing endeavor. Through Bucks for Books, our library can purchase adequate reading materials to offer a high circulation of books to each student."

In 2019, the Idaho Lottery learned 28 percent of Idaho elementary schools had a library budget of less than $100 per year for book procurement. In reality, it would take nearly $8,000 every year per school to maintain the library collection students need to succeed. With that in mind, the Idaho Lottery worked with the Idaho Commission for Libraries to start Bucks For Books. Literacy has been a focus of Idaho Governor Brad Little since he took office in 2019. Getting all Idaho students reading at grade level by the third grade is imperative as that is the point where students transition from learning-to-read to reading-to-learn. Having a well-stocked library and the ability for all students to take books home is crucial in getting all Idaho students where they need to be.