A Douglas mother wrote:    “Just wanted to say Thank You for supplying books to the Doctors office.  We love books and my 18 month old loves to look at books and have them read to her.  I strongly believe that this is the only book some babies will see in their first 5 years, so I appreciate this program.” 

“One of your books made a very unhappy child smile today….Keep up the good work.  If your funders could only see those tears turn into smiles you would never have to worry about a dime. Those smiles are worth millions.”

Lori Bickford, Public Health Nurse, Newcastle, WY 

  “We have received another book at my child’s latest ‘Well Baby’ visit…I can’t tell you how thankful we are for the efforts of so many entities! With much appreciation,        Gwen “ 

Do the books given out by Raising Readers make a difference?  Yes. 

As a music teacher I believe that rhymers will be readers.  Because of this, in first grade we learn to sing about twenty nursery rhymes.  This year I encouraged first graders to bring in their favorite rhyming books, and especially encouraged nursery rhyme books.  During this song unit, two children brought in the same book, “This Little Pig Went to Market”.  I saw the Raising Readers sticker on the back, so as a class we discussed why kids got books when they went to see the doctor.  I also told the children that I was part of the group making sure that kids got those books.  They thought getting books was pretty cool.  The next time I had the class another book from Raising Readers was shared.  This time it was the book titled, “Book”.  Again the children shared their books with looks of pride on their faces. The children asked if they could leave their books in the music room to be shared.  They made me promise to keep the books in a safe place. These books are important to the children who receive them.  In my opinion, these books do make a difference.

 Pam Moore - Music Teacher - Sagebrush & Woodland Park Elementary - Sheridan 

 I can honestly say I have quite the biased opinion on the Raising Readers Program due to my own experiences first hand.  As a single mother of two, it goes without question that funds are often restricted and even beloved books can be considered a luxury.  While the library is a great alternative, there is nothing better than seeing my children's faces light up at the realization that the book is theirs to take home and treasure. 

Such realization has even been an alleviation of tears caused by the pain of an immunization shot.  My children have come to see the books as a reward for being brave.  At my daughters last doctor's appointment, after she was given her shots, the nurses had asked if she was okay.  Through her tears she managed to choke out, "Please can I just have my book?!"

I am truly grateful for such a wonderful program.  The book, "Tumble, Bumble," will always hold a special place in our hearts!

Amber, Casper