'Angels' help deliver thousands of books to kids
This time of year finds holiday elves hard at work making the season bright.
But at Anderson's Bookshops in Naperville, Downers Grove and La Grange, the work is being accomplished by "Book Angels" doing their part to spread the love of literacy.
Honored by this annual program's connection to young readers is Jan Dundon, a most dedicated supporter. Dundon, Anderson's longtime children's book buyer, is now retired but helped run the program through its substantial development in the communities the shop serves.
To honor her devotion and love of books, the annual charitable effort carries her name: Jan's Book Angels.
During the coming month, volunteer wrappers are encouraged to help wrap books and donors are invited to give from the heart to make Christmas special for children in need.
This heartfelt effort places books in the hands of disadvantaged children during the holiday season.
The store's Angel tree is trimmed with angel tags, each bearing a child's name and age. Donors simply select a tag and purchase a book to match. (Even simpler? The bookstore will make the matches for you.) It's that easy.
Anderson's offers a discount on all Jan's Book Angel purchases, wraps each selection and delivers the books to area charities.
Included among those selected charities are: Bridge Communities; Burr Ridge/Willowbrook School District 180; Chicago Public Schools; Child Link; Cicero School District 99; Downers Grove Elementary District 58; East Aurora District 131; Humanitarian Service Project; Indian Prairie Unit School District 204; Keeneyville Elementary District 20; La Grange District 105; Naperville Unit District 203; Partners for Success Alternative School, Project Angels Eyes (of Lurie Children's Hospital); Rotary International, Ss. Peter and Paul Christian Day Care; The LeaderShop Group; Valley View Unit District 365; Westmont District 201; and Woodridge Elementary District 68.
Individuals, organizations and classrooms have donned their "angel wings" to help Jan's Book Angel program. Donors young and old step up to help. Big or small, all gifts are encouraged.
"Every year the list of children's names seem to grow, but so does our community's generosity," said Sue Skells, Jan's Book Angel coordinator. "This year we expect a similar outpouring of support from our 'Angels.' Such gifts of the heart are welcome."
Above and beyond what donors contribute, books also are provided by Anderson's Bookshops and Anderson's Bookfair Company, Anderson's Aurora-based children's book wholesale division.
Last year, gift books were delivered to more than 3,200 children.
To participate in Jan's Book Angel program, call Skells at in to any of Anderson's Bookshops: 123 W. Jefferson Ave., Naperville; 5112 Main St., Downers Grove; or 26 S. La Grange Road, La Grange.
For details, visit www.andersonsbookshop.com.