The Partnership for Children of Johnston County (PFCJC) cut the Ribbon for two new Little Free Libraries. Little Free Libraries are popping up everywhere. They are book-sharing boxes placed within the community, where they can be a catalyst for improving reading motivation and deepening community connectedness.
The first Ribbon cutting took place in Benson. The Little Free Library is located just outside the PFCJC Family Resource Center at 319 S. Elm Street, next to the Fire Department. The event concluded with the presentation of a Buddy Bench, dedicated in honor of Evelyn Aranda, for her tremendous impact and years of dedication to children and families in the Benson area, before her passing in 2018.
The second Little Free Library is located just outside the Partnership office at 1406-A S. Pollock Street in Selma. Thanks to a donation made by Christina and Chandler Pernell, this Library will be stocked for a year.
At least 56% of children entering kindergarten in Johnston County fall below expected literacy benchmarks according to the mClass foundational skills assessment. Many families do not have access to print materials. Providing free books for children and adults is just one way to tackle the issue of having book deserts in Johnston County.
There are many Little Free Libraries across Johnston County. If you are interested in making a donation, books or monetarily or would like steward a Library, contact Johna Faulconer with Little Libraries of Johnston County at 919-815-1459 or drjslf@gmail.com .
