Hernando County YMCA seeks to provide its members with opportunities to strengthen both their mind and body. Now, the agency, located at 1300 Mariner Blvd., is seeking community donations to feed the minds of its youngest members.
The Children’s Library Bookshelf, a three-shelf bookshelf located right outside the YMCA Kids Zone, a unique activity center for the kids of the YMCA, is a place where young members can choose a book to keep for themselves! Now, as the New Year begins, this shelf requires replenishment.
“If any of our families are cleaning out things for the new year and have any gently used children’s books that you could donate, our Children’s Library Bookshelf is looking for books to fill it in order to encourage our little members to develop their love for reading and learning,” read an agency notice.
Formed in honor of departed Hernando County YMCA member Christina Mumford, the bookshelf serves as a vital educational component at YMCA.
“We try to collect kids’ books a couple of times a year for our children’s book exchange library that was set up several years ago in memory of one of our members,” said Amber Slusser, Branch Executive Director of the YMCA of the Suncoast-Hernando County. “Books can be for ages two and older. Kids that come into the Y for programs or services have the opportunity to take a book off of the shelf to keep,” said Slusser.
Ultimately, Hernando County YMCA intends to foster a love for reading and learning in children.
“The area was set up so that we could encourage and promote reading for kids,” said Slusser, “in hopes that it would both enhance success in learning but provide a constructive activity versus playing video games.”
For more information, call the YMCA of Hernando County at (352) 688-9622.
