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Libraries are important staples in our communities.
Libraries and their employees teach people how to find and use information effectively. They also help people develop critical thinking, how to research, and much more.
“The Library is the hub of a town. A place where you can find information to go about your day-to-day life. Libraries do little things to make a patron’s whole day go better,” said Magee Library Branch Manager Frances Meadows.
Libraries are one place where written treasures remain available to all, regardless of race, background, or socioeconomic status.
“Libraries are society’s great equalizer, the keeper of our past and future,” said Katina’s Klassroom founder Katina Rankin.
“That’s why Katina’s Klassroom was proud to donate books to the Magee Library. Our philosophy is ‘With Books, You Can Go Places, Read’,” Rankin continued.
“In that vein, that’s why we donated “The Peace Drum: A Kofi Tale,” said Katina’s Klassroom Board Chairman Jessica Bowman.
“Inside the pages of this book, American children visit West Africa. When they arrive, they learn about Ghanaian traditions, animals, and food. Perhaps, more importantly, they learn how the beat of a drum can bring peace after meeting former United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan,” Bowman continued.
Closer to home, they can take a quick trip to the University of Mississippi in “March on Children! The Story of James Meredith’s March Against Fear”.
“I’m a proud graduate of Ole Miss. James Meredith paved the way for me. So, it was important to me that local children learn how the foundation was set for me to attend the university,” said Katina’s Klassroom Board Member Kendall Wilson.
“This wonderfully written book helps children to understand who James Meredith really is, and why, from an early age, he began a mission to change Mississippi and America into a better place for all citizens. Stylistically, her (Katina Rankin’s) vivid storytelling, without a doubt, is a spellbinding experience for any child. I hope Ms. Rankin’s book will be used by educators across the country as a viable tool to teach children in their early learning process the “truth” about James Meredith and why he believes the word “citizen” is the most important one in the U.S. Constitution,” said James Meredith’s wife Dr. Judy Alsobrooks Meredith.
For Katina’s Klassroom Board Member, Magee Native Jackson State University, and Ole Miss Graduate Tonya King, the book donations are a bit more personal.
“I fondly remember spending Wednesdays after school at the library. It was exciting to have access to so many books,” King said.
Libraries immerse children in a world of literary experiences. The impact of reading causes a child’s imagination to be ignited. Confidence is built for a prosperous future, regardless of race, economic status, or personal capabilities.
Former Chief Administrative Officer at the Mississippi Institute of Higher Learning and Current Jackson State University President Dr. Marcus L. Thompson had this to say about “Up North, Down: City Folk Meet Country Folk” in the foreword of the book.
“This book takes children on a journey across Mississippi, while addressing still-to-common misconceptions about the state in an age-appropriate manner. This book entertains the reader while showing Mississippi is a wonderful state with wonderful people. I believe this book will instill pride in Mississippi’s children, as well as help the children outside of our state gain an appreciation for Mississippi,” wrote Dr. Thompson in the foreword.
“Up North, Down South” was just one of the books donated by Katina’s Klassroom. Katina’s Klassroom, a 501(c)3 donated seven books to the Magee Library.
“Donating to the library shows me that you know libraries can make a difference in someone else’s life with just the right books,” said Meadows.
“Over the past five years, Katina’s Klassroom has been donating books to Magee Elementary School, churches, and other venues in Simpson County. Katina’s Klassroom mission is to significantly improve the reading skills and educational opportunities of pre-k to middle school children in underserved communities. It is our prayer this donation will continue our mission and develop a love of reading in children,” said Rankin.
