Book Angels returns to Anderson's shops

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 Anderson's 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 those books, and donors are invited who are willing to give from the heart to make Christmas special for children in need.

This effort places books in the hands of area 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 can 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 Community District 180, Cicero District 99, Downers Grove District 58, Humanitarian Service Project, Indian Prairie Unit District 204, Keeneyville District 20, La Grange District 105, Naperville Unit District 203, Partners for Success Alternative School, Project Angels Eyes of Lurie Children's Hospital, The LeaderShop Group, Valley View Unit District 365U, Westmont District 201, Woodridge District 68, Side by Side Smiles and Westchester Food Pantry.

Individuals, organizations and classrooms have donned their "angel wings" to help Jan's Book Angel program.

"Every year the lists 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.'"

Above and beyond what Anderson's 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, the effort delivered gift books to more than 3,200 children who had a chance to open and own a new book; to sense the smell of paper and ink; to anticipate adventure and to discover new worlds through reading.

To participate in Jan's Book Angel program, call Skells at (630) 355-2665 or stop in to any of the Anderson's Bookshops: 123 W. Jefferson Ave. in Naperville; 5112 Main St. in Downers Grove; or 26 S. La Grange Road in La Grange.

For details, visit www.andersonsbookshop.com.