(L. to r.); Ralph Potter and Denise Pisapia from Vallo Transportation; Queens Library Advisory Committee Member Harriet Novet; Vallo Transportation President Linda DeSabato; Whitestone Branch Manager Nonyem Iloabachie and Vinny Fattizzi from Vallo Transportation. Photo Marc S. Levine Children in Whitestone had a fun, educational treat this week when they enjoyed free story and craft programs at Queens Library, underwritten by Vallo Transportation. Two sessions were held for younger, then older, grade school children. Linda DeSabato, President Vallo Transportation read aloud to the children. The readings were followed by an age-appropriate craft and refreshments. Vallo Transportation also donated books to the library.

“I’ve always felt that the library is a wonderful place that reinforces the wonders of reading and continually feeds your imagination. It also serves as an excellent educational and entertainment resource that’s available to everyone in the community. Vallo Transportation is proud to support the Whitestone Library’s Summer Reading Program and help bring this fun and engaging program to local kids and their families,” said DeSabato.

Vallo’s gift of new books is especially welcome since the library has been unable to purchase sufficient new materials due to budget shortfalls. Demand, particularly for children’s materials during the summer, is high. More than 50,000 children are expected to participate in Summer Reading this year. It is fun. It is free. It is right in your neighborhood. All ages are invited to sign up at any Queens Library or online at www.summerreading.org.