Illiteracy and the lack of books in the home is a concern in Wayne County.  The local Public Library was destroyed by massive flooding and was closed for several months greatly limiting the communities access to free books.

The Family and Consumer Sciences Agent recruited volunteers to build outdoor book cases located at the Extension Office.  Extension Homemaker volunteers painted the book cases with artistic flair.  Extension Homemakers and local community members quickly filled the book cases.  The "blue" book case is dedicated to books infant/toddler, preschool, elementary, middle school, high school/young adult and adult/senior reading levels.  The "red" book case is dedicated to board games, puzzles, media, magazines and art supplies.

Everything is donated and FREE.  People can keep them if they wish or use them and return them.  They are located outside and readily available to the public any time.

The book cases have been a huge success and even after the Public Library reopened the book cases are utilized by the public on a daily basis.  We also have a bench and picnic table located in this area and families will sit and read together or play board games.  Families have also been engaging in arts and crafts together.  This encourages positive family connections and interactions.  

Senior citizens have reported enjoying the puzzles, adult coloring books as well as the  reading materials.  Engagement in these actives help keep brains engaged and creative.  These activities create an environment for better mental health.

Over a five thousand books have passed through the book cases.  The community response has been enthusiastic and rewarding.