WAKE Up and Read Book Drive Officially Kicks Off

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By John Johnston
Community Development Manager
Greater Raleigh Chamber

The beginning of February marks the start of yet another great event—the WAKE Up and Read Book Drive! Throughout the month of February, WAKE Up and Read will strive to collect 110,000 books for delivery to 10 elementary schools, 20 childcare centers, and 10 community centers throughout Wake County. New and gently-used books for children ages birth through 12 years old can be dropped off at one of the many book drive locations throughout the county—including right here at the Chamber!

Donations will provide Wake County children with 10 books to take home with them permanently to begin building their own book library. One of the most challenging issues facing under-served youth in Wake County is limited or no access to books at home and throughout the summer months when school is not in session—motivation from which this book drive was created. This is a great opportunity to support Wake County children in need, and the Chamber is proud to partner with WAKE Up and Read once again.

In 2015, the book drive raised 115,000 books, solicited more than 500 volunteers, and successfully delivered books to over 7,100 children throughout the county. Last June, the Campaign for Grade-Level Reading coalition honored WAKE Up and Read as a 2014 Community Solutions Pacesetter for efforts to improve childhood literacy in Wake County.

Visit the WAKE Up & Read website for more information.