For Immediate Release January 3, 2005

For More Information Contact: Kim Sorrell, 317-278-2322

University Library Sponsors Scholastic Book Fair for Crispus Attucks Middle School Library

INDIANAPOLIS - University Library will partner with the IUPUI School of Library and Information Science (SLIS) to sponsor a Scholastic Book Fair for Crispus Attucks Middle School. The fair proceeds and customer-donated books will be used to support the middle school's library book collection and its reading literacy curriculum.

The Scholastic Book Fair will be held Monday, January 10 through Friday, January 14, 2005 from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and will be located in University Library's second floor lobby. Attendees will find a large assortment of reading books, Spanish books, special interest books, educational computer software, and novelty items from which to choose.

All visitors will also have the opportunity to submit their entries for a prize drawing. Four winners will be chosen to receive a $15 book fair shopping spree gift certificate. No purchase is required to win.

Because this event is open to the public, community members can show their support of Crispus Attucks Middle School by making purchases at the book fair. Shoppers are encouraged to purchase and donate books listed on the school's book fair wish list. To thank the donors for their support, University Library will affix bookplates to each donated book bearing its donor's name.

"University Library not only opens its doors to provide an unparalleled source of information for our neighbors, but it reaches out to help build strong neighborhood public school libraries," said David Lewis, dean of University Library. "Research shows that academic achievement increases in schools with strong libraries and this program provides resources that can help jump-start young people along the path to academic success."

The Scholastic Book Fair goal for 2005 is to raise at least $5,000 in book sale contributions.

The book fair is a part of the library's Basketball and Books program that promotes reading literacy and scholarly athletics.

For more information contact the University Library External Relations Office at (317) 278-2322.

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