As a member of WBFN I had been reading articles about the Book Project in Mosaic for several years. I always admired the thought behind it, and how it must have helped thousands of children all over the world, since over a million books have been sent to developing countries. It was for that reason that I certainly wanted to be a part of this project.
After my children flew from the nest to start their own lives, I soon realised that there was a void in my own life that needed to be filled. I felt as though I needed to find purposeful work in order to help rediscover myself. I needed a place where I would be surrounded by positivity and joy. I needed a place where I could make a difference. And most of all, I needed a place where I could make new friends. The Book Project was the obvious answer for me. After some hesitation, I called and was greeted by a very friendly and cheerful voice. I introduced myself and by the next day I was there to work. It was very easy talking to the volunteers as everybody was very friendly and welcoming. I was impressed by the sincerity and commitment that they had towards their work. Day after day we all come to do our best because we believe in this cause. Some of us (me included) grew up in a developing country and have firsthand experience of the poverty facing many around the world. We feel blessed that we have reached here and are now able to help send books to as many countries as possible.
At the Book Project we ask for a donation of books from county school systems, as well as from private donors. We sort these books on the basis of their content and condition. Afterwards, we stamp and pack the books according to the requests sent by the receiving schools. We send a number of books on varying scales, from large shipments (30,000–40,000 books) to small (6000–7000 books). Once the shipment reaches the recipient country, and the books are distributed to different schools, usually there is a small ceremony for the event and our distributors kindly send us photographs, on top of giving us feedback based on their experience of this project
Normally these books go to rural areas where some schools have only one or two rooms and classes are held under trees. Our hearts fill with joy when we see children with smiles on their faces, and books in their hands. We hope that when they read these books they become educated, and filled with the feeling that they are a valuable part of this world.
By Suniti Bhand