Memphis Cellulose Brings Interactive Literacy to Memphis Families through 8th DiscoverREAD

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April 20, 2018

Families to Enjoy Interactive Literacy together, thanks to Memphis Cellulose
8th DiscoverREAD to Open at Memphis Public Libraries
 

Memphis, Tenn., April 17, 2018 - Memphis Public Libraries proudly announces the 8th opening for a DiscoverREAD, Interactive Literacy Space for Families, thanks to a generous $5,000 donation from Georgia-Pacific (GP) Cellulose operations in Memphis. This DiscoverREAD is scheduled to open at the Hollywood Library, 1530 N. Hollywood, Memphis, TN 38108 (just 2.5 miles from GP’s Tillman offices) on Monday, April 23, during a special ceremony from 11am – Noon.
 
“Over $60,000 in private donations has been raised so families throughout Memphis can enjoy interactive literacy together,” says Memphis Library Foundation Executive Director Diane Jalfon. “In addition, we’ve invested another $50,000 in books and materials to enhance literacy collections at these branches.”
 
Prior to the space opening at the Hollywood Library, seven others have already opened at:
  • Cornelia Crenshaw, 531 Vance Ave., 38126
  • Benjamin L. Hooks Central, 3030 Poplar Ave., 38111
  • Frayser, 3712 Argonne, 38127
  • Levi, 3676 Highway 61 South, 38109
  • Parkway Village, 4655 Knight Arnold, 38118
  • Gaston Park, 1040 S. Third, 38106
  • South, 1929 S. Third St., 38109
Another DiscoverREAD is scheduled to open at the Cherokee Library branch, at 3300 Sharpe, 38111. Depending on space at each branch, some DiscoverREADs include: wall-mounted manipulative Playboards®, a puppet stage, a large play kitchen and other interactive items. The centers are designed to help parents and/or caregivers encourage early literacy among children up to five years old using technology and fun activities, such as reading, playing, storytelling, singing and writing.

“We are pleased to support the Memphis Public Library’s DiscoverRead initiative,” said Memphis Cellulose Mill Manager Tommy Blaylock. “It will help children gain foundational learning experiences that prepare them for future opportunities.”



The Memphis Library Foundation - - The City of Memphis annual budget covers facilities and staffing, with a small allocation for materials, for the Memphis Public Libraries’ 18 branches. The Memphis Library Foundation, a 501(c)(3) entity, raises private funds to fill the gap and provide critical library enhancements. In FY2017 (July 1, 2016 – June 30, 2017), there was an increase of $501,576 in net assets for the Foundation, with $1,260,931 in total revenue (52% contributions/grants, 43.2% investment-related income, 3.6% special events, 1.2% other income) and $759,355 in total expenses (76.6% library programs/services, 12.1% administrative, and 11.3% fundraising). Some of the FY2017 enhancements included:
  • programs such as Real Men Read, iPads for Seniors, Explore Memphis, and LINC 2-1-1
  • collection materials such as books, e-books, chess games, exercise, and activity kits
  • technology including laptops, video equipment, 3D printers, live-stream broadcast radio (WYPL FM 89.3), online training via Lynda.com, and more
  • specialty initiatives such as DiscoverREAD, 5FridaysofFREEJazz, and free summer camps for tweens and teens.
Contact:
James Barnes, Public Affairs Manager, Memphis Cellulose
james.barnes@gapac.com