October 2026

If you forgot to donate during El Paso Giving Days, you can still donate by clicking here!

Dear Books Are Gems Families,

A Heartfelt Thank You to Our El Paso Giving Days Donors!

We truly Thank, everyone who generously donated to Books Are GEMS during El Paso Giving Days!

Your kindness and generosity help us put FREE books into the hands of children and provide valuable resources to teachers. Every $10 makes a difference, helping children discover the joy of reading, strengthen their literacy skills, and succeed in school. Together, we are building brighter futures, one book at a time!

This Saturday's Storytime – Join the Fun!

Bring the children for another exciting Saturday Storytime at 11:30 a.m.! This week's featured books are Good Dream Dragon and Lila Said No. After Storytime, children and parents can enjoy a fun arts and crafts activity together.

Every child can take home FREE books!

Coming Next Week:

Health Literacy for Families –

Preparing for a Doctor's Visit

Our Health Literacy for Families program continues next week with an important topic:

“Doctor's Visit: Be Prepared, Ask Questions, Stay Healthy!”

Children and parents will learn together how to prepare for a doctor's appointment, what questions to ask, and why understanding medical advice is important. Our goal is to empower families with the knowledge and confidence to make informed health decisions.

Join us as we continue inspiring young readers, empowering families, and building a healthier, more literate community!

With appreciation,

Your Team at work,

Board of Directors

Emma Acosta, Executive Director

Susan "Susie" Patterson, Bookstore Manager

Your team at work:

Emma Acosta, Executive Director;

Susan Patterson, Bookstore Manager;

Soto, our University of Chicago summer intern

We are proud to work together every day for the children, teachers, families, and customers we serve throughout our region.

Remember,

We are open Mon, Wed, Fri

from Noon to 6 p.m.

Saturdays 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Every child receives on new book and 10 gently used books of their choice!

Stop by & Have a Happy Weekend!

Visit us and Stay Warm & Read a Book!

The following books will be read on

Saturday

11:30 a.m.

Remember, the first 15 families

recieve the Books Free!

GOOD DREAM DRAGON by JACKY DAVIS, ILLUSTRATED by COURTNEY DAWSON

Good Dream Dragon comes to the rescue in easing a child’s bedtime fears in this magical story featuring a nonbinary child. 

When a young child is afraid to go to sleep, they call on the Good Dream Dragon to help lead the way. Together, the pair race past comets as they travel through the night galaxy, making their way to the magical world of Dreamland. 

This soothing bedtime story celebrates imagination as a way to help alleviate a child’s bedtime jitters. It is a gentle reminder to children that comfort is always within reach.

LILA SAID NO! by KIKI FRAYARD, ILLUSTRATED by AILEEN BENNETT

Lila’s mom and dad say it’s time for breakfast; Lila “folded her arms, scrunched up her face, closed her eyes and said, ‘NO!’” Her parents, concerned that Lila won’t get the nutrition she needs, try coaxing her with “please” and “pretty please,” but Lila agrees only when she is rewarded with a treat. The trap that Lila’s mom and dad fall into in this humorous picture book will be recognizable to many a parent of young children: Lila quickly learns that saying “no” day after day to everything from taking a bath to getting dressed earns a motivating treat from her desperate caregivers.

Click on the Image above or here to Donate, Thank You!

Every book opens a door.

Every child deserves a key.

Your gift helps us provide free books, Storytime, and creative learning to children and teachers in our community.

A small donation today can spark a lifetime love of reading.

Thank you for your generosity and support!

The Books Are Gems Team

Dear Sponsors,

Thank you for your incredible generosity and support throughout this year. Your contributions have been the cornerstone of our success, enabling us to provide free books, host engaging literacy programs, and empower our community.

You have helped us open new doors for countless children and families, creating a brighter future one book at a time. We are deeply grateful for your belief in our mission and for making such a profound impact.

With heartfelt thanks,

The Books Are Gems Team