With the emphasis this summer on reading by the partners of Evanston’s Cradle to Career initiative, the Evanston Public Library is running low on books for kids and is actively soliciting donations.
Children’s Librarian Brian Wilson says he is particularly in need of books in the Big Nate series, by Lincoln Peirce.
“I order two copies of every book,” he says, “and will add copies when I see there are more than four people who have put the book on hold.”
The series is aimed at readers in the 8-12-year-old category and is a combination of words and cartoons. It began six years ago, and new installments have been coming out at a rate of about one a year.
Wilson also wants to expand the collection of books that reflect a diversity of characters. “What happens if you never see anyone in a book who looks like you?” he asks. “A book can be a mirror to show you someone like you or a window into a world much different than your own.”
Information on how to donate is available on the library’s website.