By Bill Parry
U.S. Rep. Carolyn B. Maloney (D-Astoria) delivered more than 250 new books to several District 30 schools Monday in an effort to boost literacy and a love of reading. Maloney partnered with Zone 126, an organization that focuses on building a cradle-to-career pipeline for children in Queens, who requested these books on behalf of the schools with which they work.
Maloney and Zone 126 distributed fiction, non-fiction, and test prep books at an event at PS 171 in Astoria, and more books were delivered to IS 126Q in Astoria and Long Island City High School. The books, provided by the Library of Congress Surplus Books Program, are part of an effort by Rep. Maloney to spread the joy of reading. Maloney was joined by PS 171 Principal Anne Bussel, students from the school, and Anju J. Rupchandani, the Interim Director of Zone 126 and Vice President of Collective Impact Partnerships.
“As a former school teacher, I know the difference that books and reading play in a child’s education and development,” Maloney said. “This program provides my constituents with access to thousands of books to expand their minds, boost literacy and help them reach new intellectual and professional heights. I am thrilled to kick off this program here in Queens, and I encourage all qualifying organizations in my district to participate and request books.”
The Library of Congress Surplus Books Program allows members of Congress to request surplus books from the Library to distribute at eligible non-profit organizations to expand their publicly accessible collections; Zone 126 and the schools receiving this first wave of books, PS 171Q, IS 126Q and Long Island City High School; are such eligible organizations. “Zone 126 is honored to be the recipient of these new books through Congresswoman Maloney’s efforts in coordination with the Library of Congress Surplus Books Program,” said Rupchandani. “The journey of a lifetime starts with the turning of a page. Zone 126 believes deeply that when a child learns to read the impact they can have on the world has the power to last a lifetime. Literacy is the key to so much more, and we are so proud to be a part of the Congresswoman’s efforts.”
Organizations in New York’s 12th Congressional District interested in receiving donations can submit requests to Rep. Maloney through her office’s website or by calling the D.C. office at (202) 225-7944.
Reach reporter Bill Parry by e-mail at bparr
