Birdhouse made from old children's books.
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3rd Annual Gifts for Literacy Geeks
But it is a cold, lifeless business when you go to the shops to buy something, which does not represent your life and talent, but a goldsmith's. Ralph Waldo Emerson
We can't help but give gifts of books and journals and pens and notepads, because we'd love everyone to love literacy as much as we do. For many of us, it's our life's passion. There are many "Best of" lists this time of year to help you pick out the perfect books for friends and families. Our list focuses on the fun stuff beyond texts.
As always, Choice Literacy receives no compensation from the companies whose gifts we recommend. These are just items our contributors have gifted or received this year that stand out as especially fun or useful. Enjoy!
Brenda Power
Editor, Choice Literacy
Book Birdhouses
Like many of us "of a certain age," I grew up on the Pokey Little Puppy and other Golden Books. You know their popularity by the scores of them often available at local Goodwill shops or garage sales.
The birdhouse constructed of old children's books at the top of this page is darling - and probably an easy project for a more crafty reader to figure out how to do on their own for gift-giving. Galison Office Supplies
We've become big fans of the Galison stationary and office supply shop over the past year, buying thousands of their jot journals, file folders, and accordion organizers as member gifts and conference favors. Their sticky note portfolios are the perfect present for literacy leaders, since it's never possible to have too many post-its on hand. These folks have great customer service, too - we've never had them misplace or send an order late. Umbra Fotofalls 18-Clip Desktop Photo Holder 
I visited a classroom this spring and admired the clever display of student poems using one of these gizmos. I've since learned they are designed for photo displays, but they work beautiful for any sort of small student art or writing displays. This is a tabletop version, but there is also a larger unit (about the size of a floor lamp) for bigger displays.
I Read Banned Books Bracelet
I have to warn you that the charms are larger on this bracelet than they appear - almost a full inch square each. But it's still a lovely conversation starter, especially for the librarian in your life to wear during the October Banned Books Week. Reading is Fundamental Notecards
Reading is Fundamental has a terrific line of affordable notecards featuring children's art with book themes. All proceeds go to support literacy programs throughout the country, and the designs are striking.
Handmade Bookmarks
These lovely and affordable bookmarks are made by a professor at the University of Michigan who researches Victorian era bookmaking on the side. If you're a fan of that age or know someone who is, these would make fun gifts.
Women Writer's Mug
Finally, for your favorite female writer, Reader's Outlet has a cup of inspiration with their women writer's mugs.
That's all for this year -- Happy Shopping!
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About
Jennifer Allen
