Food literacy and food systems are mostly unaddressed in education, and food traditions are often not being passed down. There is a large commercial agricultural industry surrounding Evansville with few local farms. Due to these challenges, several citywide initiatives were developed including the Mayor’s Commission on Food Security. Local organizations were also recognizing and prioritizing food security including the Community Health Needs Assessment. Book N’ Cook aligns with these local initiatives.

This program is a partnership between EVPL, local food advocacy organization Urban Seeds and African American farming community Legacy Taste of the Garden. Cooking utensils, ingredients and books were provided to remove potential barriers, empower youth in the kitchen and promote literacy. The program coincided with the growing season to raise awareness of locally sourced and seasonal produce. The virtual platform allowed participants to prepare a dish with family members from start to finish to share with others.

In Cora Cooks Pancit, the red apron symbolizes the passing down of food traditions. Participants acquired key culinary skills and through their participation earned a red apron embroidered with the Book n Cook logo. Seasonal ingredients were locally sourced where appropriate. While over 1500 recorded video views of the live programs have exceeded expectations, the archive of recipes and videos has the anticipated outcome of becoming a collaborative community cookbook representing local diverse food traditions.