First Book attracts diverse young readers locally  

Did you know that Collier County Public Schools serve a dynamic and diverse population of children? The three main ethnic groups (Hispanic – 47%, White – 37%, and Black – 12%) tell only part of the story. Collectively, our students speak 80 different heritage languages and come from 114 countries of origin.

Books that will engage the imaginations of these diverse young readers need to provide both mirrors and windows, in the words of the renowned Ohio State University educator, Rudine Sims Bishop.

Mirrors connote characters, stories, settings and themes that reflect the joys and challenges of their own lives, validating their own experiences growing up in America.

Windows connote books that provide a glimpse into the multicultural world in which we live, encouraging children to gain a greater understanding of, and perhaps respect for, backgrounds and experiences different from their own.

Providing both mirrors and windows is the goal of a new initiative from First Book National. Thanks to National’s “Stories for All” project, First Book-Collier County now has access to many new books that provide a rich, multi-cultural learning experience for all children–one that celebrates both similarities and differences.