Share the Joy of Reading!
Few things can transport you to another place, another time, or put you in another’s shoes faster than reading. Whether it’s a novel you get lost in, a biography you learn from, or the enchantment of turning colorfully illustrated pages to read to a child (or them reading to you), make time to reignite your passion for reading.
Literacy is the theme of our summer campaign, and we want to share some resources to inspire your summer reading and demonstrate why everyone should care about supporting literacy.
Why Does Book Access Matter?
A love of reading often starts with something simple: having books nearby. Research shows that when kids grow up with books in their homes, they’re more likely to develop strong literacy skills—and even enjoy reading along the way.
But access isn’t always equal. Many children, especially those in underserved communities, don’t have books of their own. That’s where organizations like Little Free Library are making a difference, placing thousands of book-sharing boxes in neighborhoods where stories are needed most.
And the impact matters. Across the U.S., millions of children are still working toward reading at a proficient level, which makes early access to books—and encouragement to read—more important than ever.
That’s why supporting literacy efforts, donating books, or simply sharing a story can go a long way. Because sometimes, one book is all it takes to spark a lifelong reader.
Free Little Libraries
Little Free Library is a nonprofit organization based in Saint Paul, Minnesota with a mission of being a catalyst for building community, inspiring readers, and expanding book access for all through a global network of volunteer-led Little Free Library book-sharing boxes. There are now more than 200,000 registered Little Free Library book-sharing boxes worldwide, found in all 50 states, in 128 countries, and across all seven continents—even Antarctica. More than 400 million books have been shared through these little libraries, profoundly increasing book access for readers of all ages and backgrounds.
In the Augusta County area, there are more than a dozen Little Free Libraries. One of the exciting things about the neighborhood Little Free Libraries is the eclectic collection of books you can find. It’s a great way for people to recycle books they’ve enjoyed and then pass along their enthusiasm for reading. Use the Little Free Library Map and visit one near you.
Local Bookstores
We love local, and we love books! So, what better way to support the community than purchasing your books at one of our marvelous local bookstores? Some of these shops also host events. Here are a few of our favorites:
- Staunton Books and Tea
34 East Beverley St., Staunton, VA 24401 - Pufferbellies Toys & Books
15 W. Johnson St., Staunton, VA 24401 - Stone Soup Books
402 West Main St., Waynesboro, VA 22980 - Green Valley Book Fair
2192 Green Valley Ln., Mt. Crawford, VA 22841
Get Involved In Local Literacy
Share the joy of reading by donating your used books!
The Friends of the Augusta County Library accepts good-condition books that are either added to the library’s collection or sold to raise necessary funds. Check the website for more info and drop off books at these locations:
- Fishersville Library: 1759 Jefferson Hwy., Fishersville, VA 22939
- Churchville Library: 3714 Churchville Ave., Churchville, VA 24421
The Waynesboro Public Library also accepts book donations during the hours they are open and their staff will give the books to the Friends of the Library.
- Waynesboro Public Library: 600 South Wayne Ave., Waynesboro, VA 22980
You can also donate to the Little Free Library’s Impact Library Program or support Reading Is Fundamental.
Volunteer, donate, become a reading tutor.
Learn English and Reading Now (LEARN) is an adult literacy organization that provides free tutoring in English literacy skills in the Augusta County area. Their mission is to increase opportunities for adults in the community through literacy.
No matter how you engage with reading this summer, we hope a good book takes you wherever you hope to go.
