Contributed

The new “Boggus Book Shelf” at the Yolanda K. Jabaley Clothing Center has been a big hit with children since the center reopened following summer break.

Spectator Book Club established the children’s book area in honor of longtime member and community leader Judy Boggus. Preschool children can enjoy the books while their family members select clothing, then receive a book to take home.

“The excitement on the children’s faces has been wonderful to see,” said Wanda Ann Kinnamon, director of the clothing center, a free community resource operated by the LaGrange/Troup County Council of Church Women at 201 Byron Hurst St.

Kinnamon and volunteers created a “reading corner” with help from Kemp’s Carpet, which donated purple carpet squares.

Their next goal is to add child-sized bean bag chairs or other appropriate seating.

“All the children who have come in have gone to the reading corner to look at books while their parents, grandparents or guardians shopped. The real treat is to see their eyes light up when we tell them they may choose a book to take home. It is just so awesome to watch,” Kinnamon said.

Abigail Holley became the first child to check out the reading corner when she visited the center in early August with her grandmother, Renay Holley.

“She was so very excited. She must have looked at every book on the shelf before choosing just the right one to take home,” Kinnamon said.

Boggus, an avid reader who is battling ALS, said she was proud to hear of the book project’s success.

“I cannot think of a better way to have been honored than putting books in the hands of children.”

Spectator Club plans to refill the book shelf as needed.

Community members may also donate new or gently used books appropriate for preschoolers.

The clothing center is open Tuesday mornings from 10-12 and Thursday afternoons from 2-4.