North County Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell (D-Theresa) is again hosting “Addie’s Books for Children,” an annual book drive that last year collected and distributed over 5,000 books.

Donations of new or gently used books for children up to twelve years old can be made at any Kinney Drugs store St. Lawrence County until Dec. 17.

Russell represents the 116th District which includes the St. Lawrence County townships of Massena, Canton, Potsdam, Rossie, Macomb, DePeyster, Louisville, Waddington, Lisbon, Oswegatchie, Morristown, and Hammond and the City of Ogdensburg, plus northern Jefferson County not including Watertown.

“Once again, I am pleased to have Kinney Drugs as a partner for this holiday season drive,“ said Russell. “Their commitment to helping our community is unmatched.”

The goal of the book drive is to put a book in every child’s hands during the holidays, according to a statement from Russell.

“These agencies make the book distribution happen and I am grateful for their efforts. Reading is a fundamental keystone of education. It plays a big part in helping children develop other skills necessary for creative thinking and problem-solving,” she said.

Books will be distributed by the St. Lawrence County Community Development Program.