Shelby optimists donate $1,000 to Hesperia library.

Kim Tate, Kristina Cechura and Kay Brennan.

HESPERIA — Shelby Optimist Club representative Kim Tate recently presented the Hesperia Community Library with a gift of $1,000.  

The library will use part of the gift to purchase materials for its “On Your Mark, Get Set…READ” 2016 Summer Reading program. This program is open to Hesperia area children and includes a story time for toddlers, family night and a teen night. Children will be encouraged to practice their reading skills, create something at family night activities, and enjoy fun at programs like “Critchlow Alligator Sanctuary.”  This program will run from June 23 through Aug. 5.  

“This year will include plenty of activities and prizes throughout the program” said Kristina Cechura, program coordinator.  

A portion of the Optimist’s gift will also be used to support the library’s Imagination Library program. “We like this program, because the books go directly to the kids’ homes,” according to Kay Brennan, library director. This is an ongoing program launched by celebrity Dolly Parton to support the development of reading skills in children across the nation. Parents with children under 5 who are part of the Hesperia Library District can sign up, and their child will receive a free book each month mailed directly to them. This program gives parents an activity they can share with their child and help them become ready for reading and school.  

The library is able to offer these programs to the families in the district at no cost to patrons through the generosity of service organizations like the Shelby Optimist Club.