Collect Locally, Read Globally
“Books are easy for people to contribute, and we wanted to become closer not only with our patients but also our community,” said Ann-Marie Sedor of the new partnership between The Pediatric Group and the Rotary Club of Parole.
Through August, the practice is collecting books for children of all ages at its offices in Crofton, Davidsonville and Severna Park (www.pediatricgroup.com).
The Rotary Club of Parole, which seeks old books year-round for Books for International Goodwill, has sent 5.2 million books to developing countries. Americans also benefit from the donations with books shipped to U.S. troops and communities recovering from natural disasters. Eight annual book sales at the warehouse support the shipping.
B.I.G. was born from the need of a Rotary exchange student who returned home to Nigeria to become a teacher but needed books for her school.
“We sent as many books as we could get,” said Steve Frantzich, B.I.G. board president. “From there it took on a life of its own.”
Children’s books delivered to The Pediatric Group through August will be sent to libraries and schools in impoverished communities in Africa, Southeast Asia and Eastern Europe.
Books are welcome anytime at the shed next to B.I.G.’s warehouse at 2000B Capital Drive, Annapolis.