Trust provides books for all Tusc County babies

The Tuscarawas County Public Library continued its efforts this year in providing books for babies through its First Steps to Literacy: Books for Babies Trust Fund.

The trust was established in 2008 by former New Philadelphia native Betty Lou Honaker, who wished to provide books to newborn babies in Tuscarawas County each year. With the trust, this year the library was able to provide 155 books to babies born at Cleveland Clinic - Union Hospital with 77 of those books being bilingual.

“We have a wonderful partnership with Cleveland Clinic - Union Hospital,” said Mary Smrek, children’s services manager. “While the project is small, we hope with future donations and growth of the fund to give away more books in the coming years.”

The trust was established with the hope to sustain this project for many years. Each year 90% of the interest income is used to purchase books for newborns while the remaining interest income and trust fund is reinvested for use in future years.

“Betty Lou lived her life dedicated to reading, learning, children and libraries. She was a special lady,” Director Michelle McMorrow Ramsell said. “With the passing of Betty Lou in 2022, we are honored to continue her mission by putting books in the hands and homes of area children.”

For information on donating to the First Steps to Literacy: Books for Babies Trust or to find out how to donate to other library projects, visit www.tusclibrary.org/support or call Ramsell at 330-364-4474 ext. 237.