Books needed to help children
under stress    

[NOV. 17, 2003]  State Reps. Rich Brauer and Bill Mitchell are hosting a book drive to benefit Abraham Lincoln Memorial Hospital, a not-for-profit hospital. Brauer and Mitchell are encouraging area residents to donate their used books to the hospital for patients and their families to read.

"We are particularly interested in children's books. The hospital has a bookcase in the emergency room and is hoping to collect enough children's books to start a children's library," said Brauer. "These books would be useful to occupy children during what may be a stressful situation."

According to Mitchell, the books will be collected throughout the month of November and presented to the hospital in early December. Books may be deposited Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. at 120 S. McLean St. in the Logan County Farm Bureau building. The office is closed from noon to 1 p.m. for lunch. Books may also be left at the volunteer desk at the hospital.

"Trips to the emergency room are never planned for and can be very difficult for families -- particularly hard on the children. Whether it's a sick child, sibling or family member in need of care, these books would be useful in helping to pass the time and can make the trip to the hospital easier for everyone," said Mitchell. "We are also looking for books for teen and adult patients to read during longer hospital stays. Any books donated to the hospital would be appreciated."

[News release from Reps. Rich Brauer and Bill Mitchell]