MALVERN -- "Grow Your Library" visited the Hot Spring County Library, 203 E. Third St. in Malvern, for a special storytime event on Nov. 1 from 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Each child in attendance received a free book and a Highlights magazine, courtesy of "Kids Need to Read." After the event, each child will have the opportunity to donate a book in their name.
The "Grow Your Library" donation program, led by board members Gary and Tina Mlodzik, of Mesa, Ariz., delivers free books and story time to local libraries and children during the couple's travels.
"I developed the 'Grow Your Library' program to introduce a giving culture in the youth we meet at literacy events," Gary Mlodzik said in a news release. "Putting a book in the hands of a child and allowing them to expand their horizons is magical. Allowing that child to make a small effort in order to share that magic for future generations is a priceless lesson. It is my hope that the children will be proud of the book donations made in their name and tell their friends, thereby further encouraging both literacy and philanthropy."