Bowling Green, October 17, 2025

News Summary

Justine Hester, a teenager from Bowling Green, is addressing America’s literacy crisis through her Eagle Scout project. She is organizing a children’s book drive to stock a book nook at the Early Learning Academy. The event is set for October 25 at Fountain Square Park, where community members can donate gently used or new children’s books to enhance access to literature for young readers and support early reading development amidst declining literacy rates.

Bowling Green

Justine Hester, a teenager from Bowling Green, is tackling America’s literacy crisis through her Eagle Scout project by organizing a children’s book drive to aid early reading development. This initiative is intended to stock a book nook at the Early Learning Academy, located at the former Warren Elementary School.

The book drive is scheduled for October 25 from 2 to 4 p.m. at Fountain Square Park. Hester is encouraging community members to donate gently used or new children’s books to support this cause. Her motivation for the project stems from a desire to enhance book access for children, which she believes is crucial in introducing various themes and passions during their formative years.

This book drive arises against the alarming backdrop of declining reading scores nationwide. Recent statistics from the U.S. National Center for Education Statistics reveal that average reading scores for high school seniors are at their lowest levels since 1992. The need for initiatives that promote literacy and ensure access to reading materials has become a pressing concern in recent years.

Recognizing the critical importance of early childhood literacy, the Warren County Public Library has prioritized this issue and supports initiatives like Hester’s book drive. They offer free library cards that allow patrons to check out up to 50 books and materials at any WCPL location, providing another vital avenue for fostering early reading habits.

According to the library’s Youth Services Manager, children aged 0 to 5 are in a crucial learning phase where they rapidly absorb new information. Providing children with resources during this stage is essential for setting them up for future success. This book drive not only seeks to combat the declining literacy rates but also aims to promote the habit of reading from a young age.

Hester’s project is a direct response to the growing need for accessible literature for young readers, as it aims to provide a steady flow of books that can inspire and educate. The initiative stands as a testament to the power of community involvement in addressing educational challenges and the importance of investing in the future generation’s reading skills.

Event Details

• Event: Children’s Book Drive
• Date: October 25
• Time: 2 to 4 p.m.
• Location: Fountain Square Park, Bowling Green
• Book Donations: Gently used or new children’s books

Key Statistics

• Nationwide average reading scores: Lowest level since 1992 for high school seniors
• WCPL services: Free library cards available for borrowing up to 50 books

Background on Literacy Crisis

The literacy crisis has far-reaching implications for students’ academic success and overall development. Research indicates that early exposure to books and reading contributes significantly to a child’s cognitive and emotional growth. As such, initiatives like Hester’s are vital to ensuring that all children have the resources they need to thrive. Community efforts to improve literacy rates can play a crucial role in setting future generations up for success.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Teen Organizes Book Drive to Combat Literacy Crisis
Abound Credit Union Donates $500,000 to WKU’s Financial Center
WKU Students Foster Community Spirit Through Fundraising

Additional Resources

• WBKO: Bowling Green Teen Organizes Book Drive
• Courier: BGSU Program Awarded Funds to Support Civic Literacy
• Spectrum News: New Law Requiring Financial Literacy in Kentucky Schools
• BG Daily News: Read to Succeed – Kentucky Education Officials Provide Early Literacy Update
• WNKY: WCPL Launches 2025 Summer Reading Program
• Wikipedia: Literacy
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Literacy
• Google Search: Literacy Challenges
• Google Scholar: Early Childhood Literacy
• Google News: Literacy Initiatives

Author: STAFF HERE BOWLING GREEN WRITER

The BOWLING GREEN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBowlingGreen.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bowling Green, Warren County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the National Corvette Homecoming, International Festival, concerts at SKyPAC, and sports events at Beech Bend Park. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce and the African American Museum Bowling Green Area, plus leading businesses in automotive, apparel, and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors Corvette Assembly Plant, Fruit of the Loom, and Med Center Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERELexingtonKY.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.