United Way of Chester County (UWCC) wrapped up a two-week summer preschool book drive with nearly 420 donated books, valued at over $2,300, according to a United Way press release.
Local residents donated new and gently used books for young children, filling up collection bins at several locations, including three branches of the YMCA of Greater Brandywine, Exton Square Mall, St. James’ Episcopal Church, Second Reading Bookstore, and the Chester County Book Company. These generous donations will support UWCC’s Early Education Initiative, the release said.
Charles Kochka, board president of UWCC explained the initiative’s value by noting: “Studies show that when children receive quality early learning experiences, they enter school more prepared. Success in school predicts success in life.”
To offer families free and accessible early learning activities, UWCC has installed nine Born Learning Trails throughout Chester County since 2009, funded by private, civic and corporate sponsors and built by volunteers. Eight of those Born Learning Trails will have Little Free Libraries, thanks to a recent grant from CCRES, which provides educational and behavioral health services in Chester County.
The libraries promote community involvement with a “take one, leave one” approach at the outdoor Born Learning Trail locations. “The goal is for families who may be unable to purchase books to be able to read age-appropriate books with their children, instilling a love of learning that prepares them for school success,” explained United Way of Chester County’s Manager of Community Engagement Mary Anne Feeley.
Host sites, local volunteers, and library groups plan to maintain the Little Free Libraries. The CCRES grant also benefitted the Summer Preschool Book Drive collection, which will replenish supplies at the sites this summer.
For more information on Born Learning Trails or Little Free Libraries, contact Mary Anne Feeley at 610-429-9400.
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