Student's Book Drive for Kids Seeking Community's Help

For the last three years there’s been one event throughout the month of October as prominent as the changing colors of Schooley’s Mountain’s trees.

A locally run book drive to support The Bridge of Books Foundation has asked residents to donate gently used books for children ages zero to 18, and the success level has grown each year.

This year, Jake Papa, whose sister Katie originated the effort before heading off to college, will be flying solo on the project. Jake Papa, a West Morris Central senior, took over the drive by himself last year, and his effort was staggering.

Papa collected more than 4,000 books – nearly doubling his goal – in 2012, following efforts of 2,190 and 1,800 books in the two years prior.

Papa is looking to break that astronomical number this year, and has placed donation boxes at West Morris Central High School and Old Farmers Road School, which will be available through Oct. 25.

Residents can donate new and gently used books for children under 18; if a book is intended to make sounds, it must work; and if a book has parts, it must be complete.

Bridge of Books is not looking for adult books, textbooks, encyclopedias, coloring books, used workbooks, or magazines. Bridge of Books will accept parenting books.

Drop-off times are available during regular school hours.