![Indianapolis Mayor Greg Ballard reads the Dr. Seuss book "Green Eggs and Ham" to children at Indianapolis Public Library's Eagle Branch on Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2014. - Eric Weddle/WFYI](/files/wfyi/articles/current/fullsizerender-5.jpg)
Indianapolis Mayor Greg Ballard reads the Dr. Seuss book "Green Eggs and Ham" to children at Indianapolis Public Library's Eagle Branch on Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2014.
Eric Weddle/WFYIJingle Books is a new initiative between the city, Indianapolis Public Library and Indy Reads to provide a book to every area child this holiday season.
The concept behind Jingle Books is simple. Go to any branch of the Indianapolis Public Library in Marion County or stop by Indy Reads Books and chose a free book from the Jingle Books display as a gift for a child this holiday. Wrapping paper is even provided.
Mayor Greg Ballard said the collaboration between his office, the library and Indy Reads only came to life in the past few weeks.
“We want every child in Indianapolis to receive a book as a gift this holiday season -- that’s the goal," Ballard said. "So what better way to participate in the season of giving, then by giving the gift of literacy to a child.”
Jackie Nytes, CEO of the Indianapolis Public Library, said Jingle Books is for the entire community -- you can donate a book or chose one for a child.
“In your home you have books that have been loved and are ready for a new child to love them even more. Maybe this is an opportunity to share the really good ones and they will be passed on to more families.”
New and gently used books are being accepted as donations for the program at all library branches and Indy Reads Books at 911 Mass. Avenue.
The Jingle Books program continues through December 23.
Contact WFYI reporter Eric Weddle at eweddle@wfyi.org or call (317) 614-0470. Follow on Twitter: @ericweddle.