The initial contact made with Books 4 PNG Kids was motivated from our College’s mission - We are a learning community uniting, inspiring and succeeding through Christ and our value of sustainability within our school. As we were due to ‘weed’ part of our library collection, we wanted to ensure that these resources would not go to waste, but could be used elsewhere. I contacted Heather, who was very friendly and helpful, as she discussed Books 4 PNG Kids’ purpose and mission informing me about the types of donations that were welcomed by her organisation.

Thinking that this could be the perfect fit, we decided to integrate hosting our very first Book and Stationery Drive in our community with Library and Information Week. From there it was easy. Using the guide, Run a Book Drive on their website, I spread the word by displaying posters around the school, and communicating through face to face conversations with students and staff, Facebook, College blogs, emails, assembly and the College newsletter. The drive ran for 2 weeks where the Library Team welcomed all donations and boxed as soon as they were received.

The Book and Stationery Drive was a huge success with many of our parents commenting on the fact that they had been waiting for an opportunity like this. They wanted to give their much loved books that they had read with their children to someone in need and who would enjoy and benefit from these resources. These combined with our weeded items gathered over 50 boxes of donations.

Books 4 PNG Kids is a wonderful organisation impacting the lives of others in a positive way. We will endeavour to support them in the future.

- Alison O'Keefe, Teacher Librarian, Unity College Caloundra