The Montelores Early Childhood Council (MECC) has teamed up with EPIC (Executives Partnering to Invest In Children), and Lt. Gov. Garcia in the statewide book drive Colorado Business Reads.

The book drive asks local businesses to become collections sites April 1-30.

It’s important to stress that the businesses, management and staff are greatly encouraged to donate new and gently used books for our community’s children up to age 8 as well as hosting the boxes in a highly visible area so that patrons and customers are able to donate as well.

The idea is to get books into the hands of our community’s children before the end of the school year and enable them to read with their parents over the summer.

Summer reading plays a critical role in promoting kindergarten readiness and early literacy. These are two areas that the Montelores Early Childhood Council is dedicated to improving in Montezuma and Dolores Counties.

After April 30, MECC will collect and distribute all books in Montezuma and Dolores counties.

For more information, or if you’re interested in becoming a host site, contact Katrina Lindus at the MECC office: 970-564-3211.