Shaq Gives Back - Kids' Place - Newark Public Library

Shaq Gives Back

*Basketball superstar, Shaquille O'Neal, introduces his new book,* **Shaq and the Beanstalk and Other Very Tall Tales**.

*Cover illustration from* **Shaq and the Bean Stalk.**

NBA Superstar Shaquille O'Neal appeared at the Springfield branch of The Newark Public Library on Thursday, August 12, 1999 to celebrate the launch of his first children's book, Shaq and the Beanstalk and Other Very Tall Tales published by Scholastic. Shaquille O'Neal tipped off the day with a read-a-loud to children from the community.

A ceremony followed with a dedication of a memorial garden in honor of Mr. Lewis V. Graves, branch librarian and community leader who provided 44 years of service to the Springfield Branch and surrounding community. Mr. Graves' legacy as a World War II veteran who committed his life to literacy and learning and to serving the children and families of the Springfield community was commemorated by the garden and a memorial plaque.

*Garden dedication to Mr. Lewis V. Graves at the Springfield branch.*

*Shaq and the Three Bears is one of the "Very Tall Tales."*

At the event, sponsored by Scholastic, Shaquille announced that he will be donating a portion of the proceeds from his book to the Newark Reading Is Fundamental (RIF) Book Program which will be used at the Springfield Branch. Mr. O'Neal serves as a national spokeman for Reading Is Fundamental, Inc. (RIF), and emphasizes the importance of reading and developing reading skills at an early age to all his young fans. Shaq and the Beanstalk and Other Tall Tales is a collection of treasured stories and fairy tales featuring Shaquille O'Neal with a humorous spin.