By JOYANNA LOVE/ Senior Staff Writer

In this season of giving, Chilton County High School is hoping community members will add one more group to buy for to their holiday shopping list – the CCHS library.

Media Specialist Jennifer Blencowe said the library is collecting new and gently used books to add to the collection.

“We have always accepted donations, but I have never publicized it at Christmas time,” Blencowe said.

She said many people are looking for places to donate to this time of year and cleaning out their personal collections, so it seemed like a good time to make an official announcement about the opportunity.

The school is especially hoping for donations of new or gently used young adult fiction, recent biographies and autobiographies.

Blencowe said any book the high school could not use would be offered to other schools or public library locations in Chilton County.

Those looking for ideas for specific titles to donate can contact Blencowe at 205-280-2717.

Donations can be dropped off at the school office Monday – Friday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Blencowe said when people donate gently used books to the library, the books are just as good as if the school had a brand-new book. She said donations allow the school to expand its collection without spending the $20 it would cost to purchase a book.

CCHS students use the library for research for school projects and leisure reading.

“People would be surprised how many of our students read for pleasure,” Blencowe said.

She said having new titles allows students to enjoy books they want to read but cannot afford to purchase.

“We have established here at the high school a culture of reading,” Blencowe said.