Re: Birthday Book donated to library?

["Elaine R. Ezell" <eezell@BGNET.BGSU.EDU>]

  We have such a program in our buildings K-8.  It is now called the Book
Box because donations are often for retirements, memorials, a thank you
to a teacher, instead of a Christmas gift to the teacher etc.

The PTOs provided the seed money $500 per building.  Library media
specialists select and order the books.  The box is decorated in wrapping
paper with a large bow on top.  When a book is selected a letter is sent
home indicating the the book chosen, cost and what the book donor would
like on the book plate.  If no response is given within a couple of weeks
there is a follow-up letter.  The book is not placed on the shelf until
it is paid for.  The money goes back to the PTO in a set-aside fund to
replenish the box as needed.  Form letters are used.

The giver and reason for the gift is noted on the bookplate.  The giver
receives a bookmark (we make them), and is the first person to check out
the book.  We recognize donors in the schools's newsletter, with their
picture (holding the book) on a bulletin board, and the board of
education formally accepts all gifts so it is in the boards agenda and
minutes. In case of a memorial a letter is sent to the family
acknowledging the donation.

Not all children donate for their birthday and there is no problem even
in the buildings where families are financially less able.  We never have
100% participation in any type of project. It is a matter of choice;
those not donating are not singled out.  We've had no complaints and it
is very successful.

We have an established set of procedures and forms which apply to all our
buildings. It makes the process very smooth.

Also, at the beginning of the school year we have an information sheet
about the Book Box that goes home with every student, there is an
article in the school newsletter and we've had several articles in our
local paper about the program over the years.
Hope this helps!

                    *************************************
                    *  Elaine Ezell                     *
                    *  Bowling Green Junior High School *
                    *  Bowling Green, Ohio  43402       *
                    *  eezell@bgnet.bgsu.edu            *
                    *************************************