This fund supports a model collection of children's literature which represents and depicts the ethnic, cultural and social diversity of the United States, in recognition of the important role that children's literature plays in shaping children's visions of themselves and the world.

The collection serves as a sample of the outstanding juvenile books by and about parallel cultures and is of interest to educators as well as students and faculty in literature, creative writing, ethnic studies, psychology and art.

This innovative and appealing collection is a favorite among library donors, but particularly substantial support has come from Yankee Book Peddler, Inc., under the leadership of its dynamic president and chief executive, John R. Secor. Founded in 1971, YBP is a major international provider of books and other media to academic libraries and research markets.