Visitors who donate a backpack for students get free admission to Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum

SUBMITTED BY CHRISTOPHER WILLS

SPRINGFIELD - Anyone who donates a sturdy new backpack for Springfield schoolchildren in July will get free admission to the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum.

All backpacks will benefit the students of Springfield Public School District 186. The backpacks should be new and sturdy enough for students to carry books and school supplies.

"The ultimate mission of the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum is education. This exchange is a great way to make school a little easier for students and simultaneously give people yet another reason to come learn about the nation's greatest president," said ALPLM Executive Director Alan Lowe.

Donors can bring their backpacks to the presidential museum and tour immediately or get a coupon for free admission later this year. Donors can also drop them off and pick up admission coupons at The Real Estate Group, 3701 W. Wabash Ave., Springfield.

Backpacks can cost just $10, so donors not only do a good deed but also save money off the regular admission price of $15 for adults, $12 for seniors and $6 for children. Find out more at www.presidentlincoln.illinois.gov.

Last year, ALPLM visitors donated more than 1,700 backpacks. We hope to top that number this year, and we encourage local businesses to pitch in by collecting backpacks to contribute to the presidential library's drive.

On Friday, July 27, the presidential library and News Channel 20/Fox Illinois will join forces for the "Backpack Grab n Go." Drivers will be able to pull up to the ALPLM at 212 N. Sixth Street from 5-11:30 a.m. to drop off a backpack and get an admission coupon without getting out of the car.

The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum is dedicated to telling the story of America's 16th president through old-fashioned scholarship and modern technology. It also serves as the Illinois historical library. The library maintains an unparalleled collection of Lincoln documents, photographs, artifacts and art and also has some 12 million items pertaining to all aspects of Illinois history.

Learn more at www.PresidentLincoln.Illinois.gov or by following the ALPLM on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.