MOSES LAKE — Student-athletes from big Bend Community College helped deliver 1,000 books to students at Larson Heights and North elementary schools as part of the “Disney Magic of Storytelling” program.

“We’re privileged to have the opportunity to team up with Big Bend and to order nooks for all our kids,” said Elizabeth Salmeron, an instructional coach at Larson Heights.

Each student is allowed to keep a book and take it home with them, something Salmeron said will encourage students to read over the summer.

“Having our students be able to take a book with them that they’re going to be able to read over the summer is such a wonderful opportunity. And the kids love it,” she said.

This is the second year Big Bend has participated in the program, which is also sponsored by Disney and First Book, an organization that helps provide books, educational resources and even winter clothing to kids in need.

“Some of our younger students asked when the books had to go back,” said Larson Heights Principal Diana McFaul. “When they were told they could keep the book and take it home, they jumped for joy.”

“I’m not sure who gets more excited, our athletes handing the books out, or the kids receiving the books,” said Big Bend Communications Director Matt Killebrew. “We have such a great time getting to come and interact with the kids at North and Larson.”