Book Trust Maui County is an important charity that provides free books to needy children at King Kamehameha III and Princess Nahienaena Elementary School here in Lahaina.

The group enriches the literacy culture of low-income families by giving children the opportunity to select, own and enjoy books – an average of 2-3 books per month during the school year.

According to Book Trust, “Studies prove that book choice and ownership inspires a child’s passion for reading and contributes to developing strong literacy skills and becoming lifelong learners.”

In the 2011-12 school year, Book Trust reached nearly 4,000 keiki in 20 schools throughout our county, providing more than 95,000 books.

The community can support Book Trust Maui County at its first “Art Extravaganza: A Picture Is Worth A Thousand Books!” on Saturday, Nov. 17, at Mala Wailea at the Wailea Beach Marriott Resort & Spa from 5:30 to 10 p.m.

The benefit will feature savory pupus, wine, cocktails and artwork by George Allan, Arabella Ark, Mike Carroll and many more local artists.

The silent auction begins at 5:30 p.m., and the live auction starts at 8 p.m.

Tickets are $100. For information on the benefit, contact Ann Nicol at (512) 461-4213 or anicol@booktrust.org.

To learn more about Book Trust, visit booktrust.org/.

Literacy is vital to a child’s future. Poverty can prevent children from accessing books, which reinforce literacy skills at home and help young readers develop academic skills.

Book Trust emphasized, “Every dollar makes a difference – every book opens a door.”