Lock Haven, Pa. — Commonwealth University-Lock Haven’s Circle K Club organized a month-long community service project collecting children’s books in an effort to foster literacy among the local youth. For this initiative, Circle K partnered with the Kiwanis Club of Bald Eagle and Nittany Valleys.
Throughout the entirety of March, yellow donation boxes were placed across campus inviting students, faculty, and community members to contribute their gently used or new children’s books. These drop-off locations were in the East Campus Science Center, Stevenson Library, Student Recreation Center and Ulmer Hall.
By month-end, the drive gathered a total of 50 children’s books ranging from colorful picture books to chapter books.
After a successful children’s book drive, the club plans to pursue future initiatives, aiming to expand their impact by promoting and collecting more books for the community’s grab and go mini libraries.
Club members put these books to good use by replenishing the shelves of the miniature library at the River Valley Health and Dental Office with new book options for children to read as they please.
“One of the greatest moments of this book drive is hearing the excitement these children have for books, and seeing their smiling faces when they get to choose any book they would like and take it back with them,” said Katie Gavek, Circle K vice president.
According to Gavek, the inspiration behind the book drive sparked from the emergence of little libraries in downtown Lock Haven.
“We were interested to know more about them and then found out more information through the local Kiwanis. Circle K wanted to help make a difference for children by providing them with a variety of new books to read,” said Gavek.
Circle K is a nationwide group of college students focused on serving children in their communities through volunteer efforts.
Students interested in joining Lock Haven’s Circle K Club can contact Katie Gavek at vkg6418@lockhaven.edu. Students interested in participating in future community service projects may contact Christine Wise, Assistant Director of Community Service, at cwise@commonwealth.edu.
