Middle Township School District (MTSD) announced their newest project: the installation of seven Little Free Libraries, “take a book, share a book” free book exchange boxes. And now, just in time to celebrate Read Across America Week and warmer months ahead, the Little Free Libraries are officially being installed and filled with help from some of Middle Township’s newest readers. 

Students at Middle Township Elementary #2 (MTE#2) will host a book drive during the week of March 4 to begin filling the Little Free Libraries that will be placed throughout the community during the week. Their goal is to collect 200 children’s books by Friday, March 8. 

Jennifer Heun, a middle school special education literacy teacher, worked diligently to prepare the custom-designed book exchange boxes for more than a year to support students on their reading journeys, but after receiving a cancer diagnosis, Heun decided to retire after her nearly 20-year teaching career in Middle Township schools. However, her fellow teachers and district administrators could not allow the illness to halt her vision and have been continuing to complete the project she inspired. The libraries are officially being installed and filled during Read Across America Week, March 4-8.  

“We’ve been waiting for the warmer months to officially put the Little Free Libraries to use,” said MTSD Superintendent Dr. David Salvo. “Students have been asking where they are, parents have been offering to donate – what better time to show Jen’s and the district’s efforts to promote reading than during Read Across America Week!”

“Our students are very excited to take part in the district’s Little Free Libraries project with the book drive,” said MTE#2 Principal Carrie Sinone. “It’s initiatives like this that not only encourage students to grow their love for reading, but also foster their love for giving. We’re excited about the opportunity to expand and tie in these efforts with a nationwide event like Read Across America Week.”

If students reach their goal of collecting 200 books, there will be a schoolwide celebration. Collection boxes will be placed in the MTE#2 Library for those who wish to donate any new or gently used books.  

For more information or questions about book donations, please contact MTE#2 school librarian Julie Moore at moorej@middletwp.k12.nj.us.