Honoring the African American Children's Book Project on the occasion of the Annual African American Children's Book Fair.

WHEREAS,

For fifteen years the African American Children’s Book Fair has enhanced multi-culturalism in our City utilizing the joy of reading as a tool; and

WHEREAS,

The importance of book fairs can not be understated for many of our youth use reading to better know the world around them and use books to help them develop into well educated adults; and

WHEREAS,

One of the most important reasons to encourage reading in our children is that studies show that the more our youth read the more likely they are to make positive lifestyle decisions as they grow older; and

WHEREAS,

Strictly judging by attendance the fair is a tremendous success as well over 4,500 people attended the Fair in 2006; and

WHEREAS,

Rich or poor, no one leaves empty handed as posters bookmarkers and raffle books are distributed free of charge to attendees; and

WHEREAS,

The books themselves are priced at a level where they are more affordable than in many of the bookstores in the region; and

WHEREAS,

Many of the authors and illustrators will be in attendance as well as local celebrities to further enhance the excitement and vibrancy that the book fair exudes; and

WHEREAS,

One of the esteemed authors in attendance will be Tonya Bolden, who has authored “

M.L.K: Journey of a King”

and “

Maritcha: A Nineteenth-Century American Girl

” which was recognized as a Coretta Scott King Honor Book and winner of the 2006 James Madison Book Award that is given annually to the children’s book that best represents excellence in bringing knowledge and understanding of American history to the next generation; and

WHEREAS,

The National Council of Negro Women (North Bronx Section) has inducted Tonya Bolden into its honor roll of “Legends,” declaring her a visionary and history maker for highly acclaimed body of literature for the young; and

WHEREAS,

The Fair is also lucky to host a terrific local author in Eloise Prescott who wrote

"Aisha’s Crowning Glory”

a book containing pictures and stories about African Americans that carry messages and enjoyment for young and old alike; and

WHEREAS,

The 15th Annual African American Book Fair will be held free of charge on Saturday February 3rd from one to three pm at the gymnasium of the Community College of Philadelphia located at 17th & Spring Garden Streets; now therefore

RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA

, That we hereby honor the African American Children’s Book Project, and authors Tonya Bolden and Eloise Prescott

on the occasion of the Annual African American Children’s Book Fair.

FURTHER RESOLVED

, That an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to representatives of the African American Children’s Book Project, Tonya Bolden, and Eloise Prescott

for their hard work and efforts in the promotion of children’s literacy, as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body.

End