Rustin High Students Collect 1,800 Books For The Underserved

WEST CHESTER, PA —Students and staff from West Chester Area School District’s Rustin High School collected more than 1,800 books in October and November to benefit children and young adults in need.

The students sorted through over 22 boxes overflowing with new and gently used books during the two-month drive in the school’s third annual book drive.

The book drive gave the students in the American Latino Program, National Honors Society, Library Advisory Board, and Literature for Leaders clubs an opportunity to give back to the community while making new friends.

“I had a great time helping with the book drive,” said student Caroline Rendell. “Getting to work together with friends while supporting a good cause is a great experience.”

Student Caitlyn Lakofsky echoed: “It was so much fun making new friends and helping others at the same time.”

The books are being donated to agencies including Community Volunteers in Medicine, Maternity Care of Einstein Hospital, Library Laundromat League, WC Friends Association, Young Parents of CCIU, and the Chester County Domestic Violence Center.
The books will then be distributed to the families these organizations serve.

Rustin teachers from the World Language department also donated books written in Spanish for district families in need.

“It is wonderful to share these books with children who like to read, just as I do, in time for the holidays,” said student Sienna Marciano.

The students and staff plan to continue holding the drive next fall.

“The book drive continues to grow each year, and we are so grateful for our community’s help and our students’ enthusiasm,” said Kimberly Freese a gifted resource & learning support teacher

“It is thanks to them that we continue to get valuable books into the hands of families who may not otherwise have many books at home.”