
excitement built for an event that promised to be both dynamic and transformative. Set against the backdrop of the Pennsylvania Convention Center last June 26-30, this year’s conference served as a vital gathering for thousands of library professionals and advocates from around the globe.
The ALA dedicated to enhancing learning and ensuring access to information for all, embodied this mission through thought-provoking sessions and meaningful community connections. Attendees had the opportunity to engage with forward-thinking librarians, explore innovative ideas, and collaborate on strategies that would shape the future of libraries.
In response to the growing challenges faced by libraries, including an unprecedented surge in book challenges, the ALA developed a comprehensive clearinghouse of resources to support library professionals and advocates. This initiative empowered attendees to navigate these challenges effectively, ensuring that the fundamental right to access diverse literature was upheld.
Citi of Books (COB) was thrilled to be part of this prestigious event representing 18 books from our remarkable authors! Among the standout selections that made a memorable impression with its insightful approach was “Treasure Island: It’s Not a Secret Anymore” by Donna Voss.
Donna Voss lives in Southern California. As a volunteer at her public grade school, she began the Garden Club when her daughter started kindergarten in 1997. Since then, many parents and teachers have contributed their energy toward building a “Farm to Table” public school program, which teaches kids how to grow, make, reuse, repurpose, recycle food, expanding the program throughout the district.
When Donna’s daughter became the Garden Club teacher, she developed an educational curriculum and got a grant for the first farmhouse. Now offsite tours at the school district farm are provided to all the K-6 graders who enjoy field trips of the ever-expanding farm site. By teaching the next generation how to grow sustainable food, they are also learning how to build a healthy community and develop good relationships, by promoting inclusivity and teaching the importance of considering another person’s perspective. Also, by learning how to listen with empathy and the simple act that being kind really does matter and, in some cases, can make all the difference.

In the enchanting tale “Treasure Island: It’s Not a Secret Anymore,” readers are invited to a magical realm where fairies, queens, and mystery mingle among island palms. The story begins with a sticky situation where someone has spilled honey across the kingdom! While the quick-tempered Red and Blue Fairies immediately blame the Dark Fairy, the wise Ice Queen insists there’s more to the story. This delightful whodunit keeps young readers guessing with colorful characters and clever twists that reveal the importance of not jumping to conclusions.
More than just a fairy tale, Voss’ story sparkles with lessons about truth, friendship, and the danger of assumptions. As readers turn each page, they’re treated to vivid descriptions of magical creatures and breathtaking island landscapes, while being gently guided toward solving the mystery.
The interactive nature of the story encourages children to play detective alongside the characters, making it perfect for bedtime reading or classroom discussions. This heartwarming adventure proves that sometimes the greatest treasures aren’t gold or jewels, but the wisdom we gain along the journey.
As we looked back on this year’s event, we were eager to continue building connections and advocating for access to diverse narratives in every library across the nation, sparking conversations that inspired fresh insights and impactful action.
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