GREATER SPRINGFIELD – The red bookshelves installed in locations in Holyoke and Springfield are designed to encourage literacy in the most unlikely of places.

The new project of Junior League of Greater Springfield offers books to children ages one through 10 at Hampden Probate and Family Court, Springfield; Mason Square Neighborhood Health Center, Springfield; High Street Pediatric Practice, Springfield; Valley Opportunity Council High Street, Holyoke; and Holyoke Housing Authority, Maple Street, Holyoke.

Children can select books from the shelves to bring home to read and share.

“With literacy in mind, we collaborated with Irene E & George A. Davis Foundation on literacy outreach and have launched The Little Red Bookshelf program in five community locations,” President Sharon Baldwin said.

Kate Buckley of the Junior League explained to Reminder Publications the new literacy effort was started Dec. 30. The organization had focused attention on nutrition but decided to switch focus this summer.

“There has been a great reception,” Buckley said. “Kids are already taking books.”

So far, more than 1,550 books have been placed on the shelves, and while there is still an inventory of books available, the Junior League is encouraging donations.

Buckley said the organization is looking for one more location in Holyoke. In September the group will be reassessing the impact of the bookshelves.

To learn how to donate books, email jlgs.membership@gmail.com.