It takes a village, they say, to raise a child, and it takes the efforts of an entire community to teach that child, and that one and that one, to read.
The community spirit of Greater Victoria came through on Saturday and Sunday, when thousands of people came by the Victoria Curling Club to drop off books for the annual sa国际传媒 Book Drive. Some brought single volumes; some brought many boxes or bags stuffed in the trunk of a car; a few brought full loads in the back of pickups, vans and even trailers.
Every donation was welcomed, because the more books we have for the sale weekend, May 6 and 7, the more money we can donate to education and literacy work throughout our readership area.
For this sale, our 20th, we have received more books than ever before. The tremendous turnout resulted in a lineup that extended, at times, for six blocks along Quadra Street. Thanks to the patience of everyone, book donors and others, the books arrived where they were needed.
Now, more than 100 volunteers are hard at work, opening the boxes and bags and sorting the books in preparation for the sale.
The book drive is a shining example of how the people of Greater Victoria come together for the common good. Along with the volunteers, the drive is supported by several sponsors, companies that see the value in being part of an educated community.
The donors are a vital part of the process; without your books, there would be no sale. And in less than two weeks, it will be time to fill those shelves again! See you at the sale.
And again, to everyone involved, thanks.
