In one corner of the Terry R. Harris Judicial Building in Colorado Springs, the phrase “Book ’em” carries a softer meaning.
It’s something of a feel-good rallying cry at Court Care for the Pikes Peak Region, a free, onsite day care service whose commitment to providing educational resources for its young visitors includes a free book to take home.
The service, available to anyone with court business, has assisted more than 50,000 children since it was established in 2003. Its $250,000 annual budget is supported by El Paso County and by grants and donations. New and gently used books, especially for children 6 and under, are in high demand throughout the year.
The free library is one element of the day care’s educational offerings.
Each of the two rooms is decorated to reflect a different book-of-the-month selection, and children are given materials for two craft projects — one to be completed in day care and one to take home and work on with parents.
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