CMP donates books to Maine schools, libraries

CMP President Sara Burns reads Nana and the City to a group of local kindergarten students. During the visit, Burns pointed out that it's important for all students to excel at reading, no matter what they want to do when they grow up. (Courtesy photo)

AUGUSTA, Maine - Central Maine Power has put another award-winning children's book in hundreds of public libraries and Maine schools for the 16th consecutive year. The company recently donated copies of Nana in the City to more than 600 public, private, and parochial schools and public libraries in its service territory. The Association of Library Service to Children designated Nana in the City, written and illustrated by Lauren Castillo, as an Honor Book in 2015.

"We're happy to donate this wonderful book to the libraries and schools we serve," said Sara Burns, president and CEO of Central Maine Power. "We hope Nana and the City will spark a love for reading and creativity that lasts a lifetime."

CMP's donation comes as part of the utility's charitable giving to community initiatives that help Maine families and communities engage children in the lifelong rewards of reading, learning, and educational success. During a recent visit to a local elementary school where she read the book to a kindergarten class, Burns pointed out that it's important for all students to excel at reading, no matter what they want to do when they grow up.

Nana in the City tells the story of a young boy's trip to the city for a visit with his grandmother. The city noises and crowds initially scare the boy, but with help from "Nana," his fears turn to excitement, and he finds vitality, beauty, and energy in the city his grandmother loves so much. Along with illustrating the special connection between grandparent and grandchild, Nana in the City shows youngsters that they can overcome their fears and welcome new environments and experiences.

The book donation is among several community-service initiatives at CMP designed to raise children's aspirations and help to prepare them to lead full, productive lives. The Company also has provided scholarships to students enrolled in engineering and technology programs at the University of Maine and Kennebec Valley Community College.

"CMP's commitment to the communities we serve goes well beyond providing safe, reliable power delivery," said Burns. "The support we provide to educational programs helps put our young people on the path to becoming productive adults that can help local business and communities prosper."