Bowling Green, October 16, 2025
News Summary
A Bowling Green teenager, Justine Hester, is organizing a children’s book drive on October 25 to support early reading development. The initiative aims to collect gently used or new children’s books for the Early Learning Academy, addressing growing concerns about literacy. With community participation, Hester hopes to raise awareness and improve literacy rates for local children, emphasizing the importance of early reading resources.
Bowling Green – A Bowling Green teenager, Justine Hester, is taking significant action to combat the growing literacy crisis through her Eagle Scout project. Hester is organizing a children’s book drive aimed at supporting early reading development for young learners.
The book drive is scheduled for October 25 from 2 to 4 p.m. at Fountain Square Park, where community members can donate gently used or new children’s books. The goal of this initiative is to collect books that will stock a book nook at the Early Learning Academy, which is located at the former Warren Elementary School.
This initiative responds to alarming trends in literacy across the nation, where high school seniors have recorded their lowest average reading scores since 1992, according to the U.S. National Center for Education Statistics. Hester underlines the necessity of access to books for children’s development, asserting that they help to introduce various themes and passions that can enrich a child’s learning experience.
The importance of early literacy is recognized by the Warren County Public Library (WCPL), which has been prioritizing early childhood literacy initiatives. The library provides a free card that allows clients to borrow up to 50 books and materials from any WCPL location. This card is a viable resource for families looking to enhance their children’s reading skills.
Alexis Erskine, the WCPL Youth Services Manager, emphasized that children’s brains develop rapidly from ages zero to five, which is why providing resources during this critical window is essential. Hester’s book drive is a step toward the larger objective of promoting youth literacy within Bowling Green.
The upcoming event not only aims to gather literature for local children but also serves as a community rallying point to raise awareness about the importance of reading and literacy in early childhood development. As numerous studies show a correlation between reading proficiency and future academic success, community-driven projects like this are pivotal in fostering a lifelong love of reading among youth.
With the community’s participation in this book drive, Hester hopes to make a meaningful impact on literacy rates within Bowling Green, contributing to a brighter future for local children.
FAQ
What is the purpose of the book drive organized by Justine Hester?
The book drive aims to support early reading development by collecting children’s books that will stock a book nook at the Early Learning Academy.
When and where will the book drive take place?
The book drive is scheduled for October 25 from 2 to 4 p.m. at Fountain Square Park.
What type of books is Hester seeking for the drive?
Hester is seeking gently used or new children’s books for the drive.
Why is early literacy important according to local resources?
The Warren County Public Library recognizes early childhood literacy as critically important in early learning, emphasizing that children’s brains learn rapidly from ages zero to five.
Key Features of the Book Drive
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Organizer | Justine Hester |
| Event Date | October 25 |
| Time | 2 to 4 p.m. |
| Location | Fountain Square Park |
| Book Types Accepted | Gently used or new children’s books |
| Beneficiary | Early Learning Academy |
| Focus Area | Early reading development |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Bowling Green’s Scare on the Square Event Returns
Additional Resources
- WBKO: Bowling Green Teen Organizes Book Drive to Combat Literacy Challenges
- Beech Tree News: Toys for Tots and TVA Partner to Launch 8 New Book Nooks in South Central Kentucky
- Spectrum News: Storybook Trails Provide Literacy Practice at Ohio Rest Stops
- Google Search: early literacy
- Wikipedia: Literacy
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.
