Inspiration

In honor of children’s literature author, Mary Jane Miller, the vision of Your Children’s Bookshelf was born to encourage children to read, promote literacy and foster the love of learning. As a published author, nominated for the Rebecca Caudill award, Mary Jane’s life encompassed the love of reading, writing and family, in her later years, Mary Jane battled dementia. During this battle, her circle of family grew to include loving and skilled caregivers at St. Patrick’s Residence in Naperville, IL.

As a way to give back to the caregivers at St. Patrick’s Residence. The mission, therefore, was to thank Caregivers for their tremendous work by providing them, their families, and community, complimentary children’s books and carry forth the legacy. From there in order to reach additional Caregivers, they have established “libraries” in partnership with Home Care Agencies, Skilled Nursing Facilities and Adult Day Care Centers.

These “libraries” provide children’s books that do not need to be returned. Our only request is to please continue Mary Jane’s legacy by sharing these books and the love of reading. Our vision is to encourage children to read, promote literacy and foster the love of reading.

Seeing a greater need to fill, Your Children’s Bookshelf began to focus our mission on getting FREE books through YCB Program Partners (other 501(c)(3) organizations) that provide services to disadvantaged Families and Children. Our partnerships with our Program Partners include services around - Children’s Group Homes, Foster Family Centers, Social Service Agencies, Transitional Housing, New Mom's Groups, Domestic Abuse Centers, Residential Treatment Centers, Early Education Initiatives and Immigrant/Refugee Programs. We are extremely fortunate to work with such great organizations and deeply appreciate the relationships.