Ex-lawmaker calls for books for kids

The goal is to get a book to every inner-city pupil for summer vacation.
By HAROLD GWIN
VINDICATOR EDUCATION WRITER
YOUNGSTOWN -- Former state legislator Thomas P. Gilmartin Sr. launched the "Missing Link" program 11 years ago to get books into the hands of Youngstown elementary school pupils.
At 81, he's decided it's time for someone else to take over the program, and he's persuaded Cardinal Mooney and Ursuline high schools to take on the task beginning in September.
Gilmartin told the city board of education that he's taking one last shot at getting more books into the hands of Youngstown schoolchildren, targeting every grade level this time.
He's asking the public to take their unwanted books to any city school Monday through Friday next week.
"I've gathered enough books for some of the schools for each student to have a book to take home for summer vacation," Gilmartin said, adding that he needs some help in making sure that every child can get at least one book.
"When housecleaning, don't throw your books away. Bag or box them and take them direct to one of our inner-city schools. God will bless you for your effort," he said.
Scope of program
Gilmartin, through his program, was able to deliver a book to each child in kindergarten, first and second grades at eight public, parochial and charter schools in Youngstown over the last couple of years.
"I did it for the fun of it and exercise," he said, noting that he tried to salvage books but often bought many to give away.
"The children are eager and enthusiastic to read. The problem is the inner-city children do not have proper reading materials in their homes, and I have found that just reading in school is not enough for them to progress," Gilmartin said.
If the effort helps just one child, then it was worth it, he said.
Gilmartin, who served in the Ohio Senate and House for a total of 26 years, is the author of a number of books of poetry.
His efforts on behalf of the city's children haven't gone unnoticed or unappreciated.
"You exemplify the mission of the Youngstown city schools to encourage lifelong learning," the Rev. Michael Write, board of education president, told Gilmartin.
gwin@vindy.com