Robert E. Lee Elementary School officials are hoping to raise at least $1,800 to purchase books for students.

The school is asking local businesses and residents for aid in buying hardback books for first and second graders by Dec. 16 as part of the Give-A-Book program.

The donations are tax-deductible, program coordinator Jo Zapata said.

The books are personalized so students become the central characters in the story, boosting their interest and involvement, she said.

In the past, Ms. Zapata has also led a campaign to raise money for books for Lee's third and fourth grade students.

"The child is the star of the story," said Ms. Zapata.

"If they're the star of the story, they're going to read the book more and strengthen their reading skills and, if they can't read yet, hopefully then an adult will sit down and read with them."

Ms. Zapata began soliciting donations Friday, but has been unable to raise any money so far.

She said sponsors of the program provide funding for the supplies.

The book printer and Story Tree Books, a Jefferson company that produces personalized books, donate the software to build the books and help with the labor.

Individuals who donate are mentioned inside each book to thank them for their support.

The book students will be reading is "The Big Parade." In the story, the main character "gets a call from the mayor to ride in the first fire truck to lead the Big Parade down Main Street of Marshall."

"The idea is to increase the reading skills," said Ms. Zapata, adding the program also aims to "work on self-esteem issues."

For more information or to donate, contact Jo Zapata at 903-578-2320 or info@storytreebooks.com or contact the school at 903-927-8890.

Interested donors may also mail a donation directly to the school at 1315 Calloway St., Marshall, TX 75670.