Business Book Link, a program of Link to Libraries, connects companies with underprivileged elementary schools and their students.
Susan B. Landry, new project director of Link to Libraries' Business Book Link initiative, reads with her daughter, Emma.
LONGMEADOW - Susan B. Landry has been named project director of Business Book Link, a new initiative by Link to Libraries, founded by Susan Jaye-Kaplan and Janet Crimmins in 2008. The all-volunteer, nonprofit organization provides books to underprivileged elementary schools and their students.
Business Book Link, a program within the larger organization, began in September and raises money for books through partnerships with local businesses. Under Landry's direction the program has, so far, partnered with more than 20 businesses.
"She is remarkable, and we are honored to have her in our organization," said Jaye-Kaplan.
According to Landry, what is special about this program is the connection between a business and a specific school. The business not only provides funds, but also participates in a way that is of interest to the company and benefits the school. Some companies read to students on a regular basis. Others provide computer training. Others teach financial literacy.
"It's a win-win situation," Landry said. "Children are future employees and future consumers, and an educated population benefits everyone. I'm impressed by the number of businesses that have signed on so far, but this program sells itself."
When a company signs on, Business Book Link holds a book presentation ceremony at the chosen school. "It's great to see how excited everyone is at these ceremonies," Landry said, "business people as well as teachers and students."
"I had been looking for a volunteer position that addressed literacy and children," she explained, "and came across an article about Link to Libraries. After joining, I was helping out in the background, when Sue (Jaye-Kaplan) asked me to direct this new initiative."
As a lifelong reader, Landry believes that reading is the foundation of all learning and vital to the acquisition of life skills. "Our goal is to have proficient readers by the fourth-grade," she said. "We want to instill the love of reading at an early age. It's what I want for my own daughter."
"Although we've received a lot of support from the business community, the need is great," she said. "There are so many underserved elementary schools in the area."
One of the first companies to sign on was the accounting firm Meyers Brothers Kalicka, a certified public accounting practice based in Holyoke.
"As part of the Link to Libraries Read Aloud Program, I was reading to students at Sullivan School, where my wife is a guidance counselor," David Kalicka explained. "But this past year, we agreed to make a greater commitment, both financially and in terms of staff. It's a three-year commitment, and four members of our staff read to the students on a rotating basis."
He added, "It's a great program. It's a good feeling to give back to the city where I grew up, and when I go to read, it's a wonderful experience. The kids are engaged and excited. By giving, we're getting something back."
Sarah Pompea, marketing and promotion director, as well as owner, of the Springfield Falcons hockey franchise, echoed that sentiment. The Falcons was among the first business sponsors to join Business Book Link, adopting Tatham Elementary School in West Springfield.
"We've recently formed the Springfield Falcons Charitable Foundation," she said. "The foundation's mission is to enrich the lives of children and families throughout Greater Springfield by promoting awareness of education, exercise and health. Our partnership with Link to Libraries is a natural fit."
Any business wishing to join Business Book Link can contact Landry at litlink@hotmail.com.