BISBEE — Continuing its efforts to increase awareness and acceptance of people with additional needs, Premier Alliances, Inc. has donated over 100 books touching on disability issues to several local libraries.
This is the third time in five years that the nonprofit Premier Alliances has purchased and donated books for young readers to libraries throughout Cochise County. Most of the books were selected by Copper Queen Library Manager Jason Macoviak, and include graphic novels, novellas, and novels aimed at young adult readers.
The books will be donated to the Copper Queen Library and the Cochise County Library District, which operates library branches in Bowie, Elfrida, Portal, Sunizona, and Pearce.
“These books are a wonderful addition to the rural library collections, and all of us at the Library District are excited to share them with young readers. Featuring stories about people of all abilities strengthens our library collections and our communities,” said Amadee Ricketts, Director of the Cochise County Library District. “Thanks to Premier Alliances for supporting Cochise County’s small libraries as part of their outreach efforts.”
It is the hope of Premier Alliances that exposing young readers to stories highlighting themes of inclusion and diversity will give them a greater understanding of the world around them, and for readers with disabilities, give them the chance to see themselves in the books they read.
“The Copper Queen Library is honored to have such strong partners like Premier Alliances to help us grow our collection of books. These important titles will ensure that our community has access to a wide representation of stories and characters,” said Macoviak.
Previous donations to local libraries in 2019 and 2022 included low vision reading equipment and children’s books. In total, nearly 500 books have been donated to area libraries by Premier Alliances in the last five years.
“Maybe now more than ever the power of holding and reading a physical book is undeniable. From the cover art to turning the pages, some of our strongest memories and influences are created around books,” said Premier Alliances CEO John Charley. “Premier Alliances is pleased to play a role in that experience for young readers throughout Cochise County whose world is just opening up to them.”
Premier Alliances is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Bisbee, and dedicated to Improving the Lives of People with Disabilities. Premier Alliances employs individuals with additional needs on Fort Huachuca and in Bisbee, and supports the greater community through a variety of philanthropic efforts and strategic partnerships, including purchasing and installing accessible playground equipment in public parks, and offering the Founders Scholarship to Cochise County residents who have a disability or are caretakers of someone with additional needs.
To learn more, visit www.premieralliances.org or email info@premieralliances.org.
