University of Alabama Awards Books to Local Schools

News Summary

The University of Alabama has announced the distribution of over $15,000 worth of books to elementary and high school libraries in the Black Belt region. This initiative, known as the SLIS Book Bonanza, celebrates literacy by benefiting schools that applied for new books. Notable winners include Barbour County Intermediate School, Edgewood Elementary School, and Reform Elementary School, among others. Additional prizes were awarded to schools demonstrating economic need, ensuring that access to books continues to expand. The program highlights the university’s commitment to enhancing educational resources and fostering a love for reading in local communities.

University of Alabama Launches Exciting Book Bonanza for Local Schools

The University of Alabama is lighting up the Black Belt region this April by awarding an impressive over $15,000 in new books to elementary and high school libraries! This generous initiative is part of a program called the SLIS Book Bonanza for the Black Belt and Beyond, aimed at enhancing the literary resources available in schools that significantly benefit students in this area.

So, What’s the Scoop?

As part of this exciting giveaway, more than 70 schools took the time to submit applications back in February, showcasing their enthusiasm and need for fresh reading material. After a careful selection process, several lucky schools were chosen to receive these fantastic book collections.

Meet the Winning Schools!

First up on the list of winners is the Barbour County Intermediate School, which caters to students in grades 2 to 6. With Librarian Mary Siler steering the ship, this school is poised to enhance its library offerings with an array of new titles.

Next, Edgewood Elementary School, serving grades Pre-K to 6 in Dallas County, is thrilled to be in the mix, thanks to the hard work of Librarian Jennifer Hyche. This school is all about fostering a love for reading from the youngest ages!

Over in Pickens County, Reform Elementary School has also joined the ranks of winners. With Librarian Ashley Patten at the helm, this school focuses on grades K-4 and stands ready to enrich its library with exciting new books that can ignite passion for literature in its students.

Additional Prizes for Schools in Need

But that’s not all! Three additional schools have earned the special Book Bonanza Beyond prizes, aimed especially at schools that demonstrate economic need. These deserving institutions include:

• Bridgeport Elementary School in Jackson County, serving grades Pre-K to 4, with Librarian Kathy Frizzelle
• Carlisle Elementary School in Etowah County, accommodating grades Pre-K to 5, with Librarian Heather Grant
• Waterloo High School in Lauderdale County, an all-encompassing institution for grades Pre-K to 12, with Librarian Stacy Morgan

The addition of these new books to their libraries will create endless possibilities for students. Whether they find themselves poring over picture books or diving into informative texts, the excitement of reading will surely flourish in these spaces.

A Program with Heart

The SLIS Book Bonanza program started back in 2009 with the vision of making a difference in the community, and it has continued to grow and evolve. With each giving season, the program endeavors to meet the literary needs of schools within the region and adapt to changing hurdles they may face.

As we look ahead, schools are encouraged to keep an eye out for the next opportunity to apply for this wonderful program in February of 2026. It’s a great chance for schools to get involved, apply, and potentially benefit from future book giveaways!

Conclusion

This initiative by the University of Alabama not only underscores the importance of access to reading materials but also brings a sense of community spirit, hope, and inspiration. With the support of such programs, educational institutions can continue to flourish and students can find their love for reading flourish, one book at a time.

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Additional Resources

• WVUA 23 News
• USA Today: Black Friday Book Deals
• Tuscaloosa News
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Black Belt Region
• Google Search: University of Alabama Book Program