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If you noticed gatherings of children and a few adults in area parks over the summer, it was probably an event put on by the local literacy outreach non-profit, Books for Better MN.

The schedule was supposed to have ended in Central Park in North Branch two weeks ago Tuesday, but Goodview Park in Wyoming was added last week.  A visiting author wanted to do a read aloud program and she would provide the books.  How could organizer Nicole Farrell say no?

Books for Better MN has been reaching anywhere from 20 to 50 children over the summer season, at parks where Farrell and her helpers do programs in Chisago and Isanti counties. This was a good summer, Farrell reports, with lots of attendees. It seems the word is getting out that there are no strings attached, no paperwork or lists are kept for being a participant. 

Lakes & Pines Community Action Council also cooperates with the events.  A representative speaks briefly about HeadStart early childhood education availability,  and toys and activities are shared  after the free books have been distributed.  

The day the Press stopped by, freezee pops and applesauce  treats and a swag bag with school supplies, could be picked up as well.

The youngsters interacted as Farrell read the book, interjecting their own comments on the story plot or declaring their favorite parts.  Everybody selected a free book from the display table, and dashed off to play on park equipment enjoying what’s left of summertime.

Farrell explains she has no background in literacy or publishing, and was a medical assistant in her professional life. She saw the need to get books into kids’ environment and the Books for Better MN organization was founded in 2020 during covid.  Farrell  was just responding to an inner voice to do something to contribute to the community.   

Books for Better MN has a space at the mall in North Branch, where it operates out of.  (Best to check Facebook ahead of visiting to see if they are open.)   There is a wishlist on Amazon where people who want to support the cause can purchase needed books too.

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