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Cornhusker Book Drive promotes literacy
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the average American produces about 4.4 pounds of garbage per day, or a total of 21,600 pounds per year. This only takes into consideration the average household member and does not count industrial waste or commercial trash. Too often, some of that weight is due to books that our families have outgrown, read too many times or no longer need.
That load can be lightened.
The third annual Cornhusker Community Book Drive is under way now through May 4, to promote literacy among children and adults across Nebraska by increasing the availability and appreciation of books. Last year, nearly 5,000 books were donated and distributed state-wide and organizers are committed to raising that total in 2013.
According to Katie Rea, an AmeriCorps member and co-chair of the statewide Cornhusker Community Book Drive, some of the locally donated books will help fill the shelves of the new library in Culbertson, Nebraska. The surplus will go to Goodwill Industries of Greater Nebraska.
"We would love to fill every shelf at the new library," Rea said with a grin. "The books are going to a good home."
According to Rea, many volunteers will be needed on Join Hands Day, Saturday, May 4, to help sort and distribute the donated books.
"Join Hands Day is the opportunity for children, youth and adults to come together in a common project," Rea explained. "That's what we'll be doing Saturday, May 4."
Gently used books suitable for children or adults can be dropped off at Memorial United Methodist Church, 105 East E Street. A sign-up sheet for volunteers is available and anyone wanting to donate or volunteer, or anyone needing additional information, can call Rea at (308) 345-4070.
Online, information is available at www.serve.nebraska.gov or www.cornhuskerbookdrive.org.