Library distributes dictionaries to third graders

 Local third graders are receiving free dictionaries courtesy of the Friends of the South Windsor Public Library.

Distribution of 316 copies of `A Student`s Dictionary` began this week and will be completed next week, said Mary Martin, treasurer of the Friends group.

This is the fourth year of the free dictionary distribution, which is part of a nationwide effort called `The Dictionary Project.` The website of the nonprofit group — www.dictionaryproject.org— says approximately 11.5 million dictionaries have been given to students so far.

In South Windsor, the Friends group has raised money for the dictionaries through its used book sale, Martin said. The dictionary being distributed locally includes definitions, weights and measures, a copy of the U.S. Constitution and maps, she said.

The group targeted third graders because the students are beginning to read chapter books and look up definitions for papers they write in school, Martin said.