Youth-Led Initiative Tackles “Book Deserts” in west Virginia and Beyond
GRAFTON, WV – A West Virginia-based association is working to ensure preschool children have access to books, even in areas where libraries are scarce. The LiTEArary Society, founded five years ago by Rania zuri, has donated over a million dollars’ worth of new picture books to more than 91,000 preschool children nationwide.
The organization, whose name playfully combines a love of literature and tea, began after Zuri learned about “book deserts” - communities with limited access to children’s books – while in middle school. “I was so sad to learn…that so many children don’t have that privilege of having a parent or caregiver read to them or have books at home,” Zuri explained. She initially focused on donating copies of her favorite book, “Pete the Cat.”
Today, the LiTEArary Society operates as a nonprofit with thousands of youth volunteers, including high school junior Devan Chopra. Chopra volunteers in preschool classrooms, like one in Grafton, West Virginia, reading to students and distributing books for them to take home.
“I’m here because I really want to spread the love of reading,” Chopra said while reading “Pete the Cat” to a class. She emphasized the impact young volunteers can have. “You can make a difference if you’re a child…we’re entirely youth-led.”
The organization’s impact is deeply felt by the children receiving the books. “It honestly means the world to me as, specifically in this state, I always think if just one kid falls in love with reading and has the same passion that I had as a kid growing up, then it makes everything worth it,” Chopra stated.
The LiTEArary Society has expanded to include high school chapters in all 50 states and is now welcoming volunteers as young as 12. In 2022, Rania Zuri was recognized for her service with a Daily Point of Light Award, honoring outstanding volunteers.
Those interested in learning more about the LiTEArary Society and other volunteer stories can visit npr.org/heretohelp.
