We know that interrupting oppression begins with the understanding that reading is a weapon. Books and Badges believe in equipping our vulnerable young readers with the weapon of reading.
We realized that just telling our young readers that it is important to read is not good enough.
The Little Free Library book-sharing box will be opened seven days a week, 24 hours a day and are freely accessible to all, removing barriers to book access. Books and Badges unveiled the little free library at MVPD, Saturday, September 25th.
“We thank the City of Mount Vernon Police Headquarters and the Mount Vernon Police Benevolent Association for sharing your space and understanding that reading is fundamental”, Detective David Clarke shared with Black Westchester.
The conversations about children reading is a needed one. Children have much to gain from having lots and lots of books at home. It is important for us to encourage our children to read. The question is how do we accomplish this task when electronic devices have replaced the hug of hands. Statistics indicate that a book-filled home encourage a culture of reading.
“We are excited! We know the importance of reading. And we want to be a part of building a culture of reading in communities,” Detective Montika Jones shared with Black Westchester. “We are recommending that each home in Mount Vernon is loaded with 80 books on your bookshelf! Start building your library today. It is a great investment.” Detective Montika Jones was on her second shift during the event due to a homicide incident in Mount Vernon.
Here are some tips from us to you:
Tip #1: Share books you loved as a child.
Tip #2: Your child’s interest matters. Have him or her pick out their own books to read.
Tip #3: Make sure your bookshelf is diverse.
Tip #4: Give books as gifts to celebrate milestones and accomplishments.
Tip #5: Carve out reading time within your home daily. At least 30 minutes per day.
Books & Badges intentionally create conversations with children about reading. A needed one. Children have much to gain from having lots and lots of books at home. It is important for us to encourage our children to read. We are able to accomplish this task when electronic devices have replaced the hug of hands. We know our children are digital natives. We also know that statistics indicates, a book-filled home encourages a culture of reading.
Shout out to Mount Vernon artist Kobe Jones who created the MVPD and PBA Badge.
