Boys & Girls Club holds Valentine’s book fair

Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Redlands-Riverside held a Valentine’s-themed book fair for members on Friday, Feb. 12.

Each member got to choose a package of age-appropriate books, and parents were invited to pick out books at tables set up curbside. All books were free to take.

Club staff made a decorative photo backdrop and decorated and set up a room to mimic a Scholastic book fair. Besides books, each kid got a Valentine and sweet treats.

Panda Express, Barnes & Noble in Rancho Cucamonga and UPS Stores donated the books.

“We want all the kids we serve, especially those most at risk, to develop a love of reading,” said Kate Salvesen, the Club’s vice president for resource development. “We’re glad we had enough so parents could choose books, too, and are thankful to Panda and Barnes & Noble for giving us so many new books.”

More than 70% of youth the Club serves come from low-income families, and a love of reading will open doors for them in the future, Salvesen said. The Club is planning another book fair in spring. The facility has been open all day for COVID-safe distance learning support and after-school programs.