Library Cards for New raising readers Grads

In May 2005, the first group of five year olds “graduated” from raising readers. In recognition of that event and to promote a life-long love of reading, raising readers is launching a promotion to encourage children to seek out their local library and get their first library card.

  • raising readers will help promote Maine libraries and library cards to five year olds in the program.
  • Starting in August 2005, the book given to every five year old will contain a letter to families encouraging them to sign their child up for a library card.
  • A small card will be attached to the letter certifying that the child has been “Raised to be a Reader” and is ready for their first library card.
  • The child will be encouraged to show the raising readers card at their local library when they apply for a library card. “Raising Reader Grad” stickers will be provided to libraries to place on the library card (if desired).
  • No enrollment is necessary and participation is voluntary. There is no fee to participate thanks to the ongoing support of raising readers by the Libra Foundation.
  • Information packets were sent to all public libraries in July 2005.

raising readers is a health and literacy program, funded by the Libra Foundation, that provides new, hardcover, age appropriate books to children from birth to age five. Children receive their books at their well child visits with their doctor. This gives the physician the opportunity to stress to parents the importance of reading aloud to their children and the positive impact it will have on brain development.

The raising readers Program reaches the entire State, due to a successful collaboration between MaineHealth and Eastern Maine Healthcare Systems, two of the largest healthcare systems in the State. Over 160, 000 books are given out each year.
Raising Readers | P.O. Box 17826 | Portland, Maine 04112 | Phone: 1-800-397-3263
Libra Foundation