The Free Books Project is a remarkable initiative that has been making waves in the community, particularly in Camden. Founded by a Rutgers-Camden student, this project has been putting 250,000 books into the hands of Camden kids since 2018. The city’s need for more comics and graphic novels is undeniable, and this project is dedicated to addressing this issue.
From a Simple Folding Table to a City-Wide Movement
It all started with Tom Martin, a passionate individual who set up a simple folding table on Camden Street. This humble beginning marked the start of something incredible. The Free Books Project has grown to include “Book Arks” dotting the city streets, and pop-up libraries springing up where kids need them most.
- Senior Feroza Aziz, a Rutgers-Camden student, is one of the key figures behind this project.
- She set up boxes to collect books in the Campus Center and Paul Robeson Library.
- Aziz aims to collect 100 graphic novels by the end of the term.
Aziz’s involvement with the project began with a sense of fulfillment. “I had such a sense of fulfillment,” she said. “I hope to pursue a career in law, so my time with RICAP was beneficial to me in so many ways, but I decided to volunteer with The Free Books Project because it just made me happy to be there.”
The Importance of Comics and Graphic Novels
Comics and graphic novels have become increasingly popular among kids. According to Feroza Aziz, “Kids ask for graphic novels more than any other type of book.” This demand is not only a reflection of their interest but also highlights the need for more of these books in the community.
| Key Points | • Comics and graphic novels are the most in-demand type of book among kids. |
| Why are they so popular? | • They are engaging and interactive, making reading more enjoyable for kids. |
Program head Simanti Lahiri sees two significant benefits from Feroza’s graphic-novel drive. “Feroza’s drive does both because she raised the project’s name among students and will give books to Camden’s young readers, sparking a love for reading that could last forever.”
Breaking Down Barriers
The Free Books Project is not only providing books to kids but also breaking down barriers between the campus and community. Feroza Aziz, as a Bonner Civic Scholar, puts in 300 hours of community service yearly, earning her Certificate in Civic Engagement and Social Change.
“I see two big wins,” said Simanti Lahiri. “Feroza’s graphic-novel drive does both because she raised the project’s name among students and will give books to Camden’s young readers, sparking a love for reading that could last forever.”
A Bright Future Ahead
As Feroza Aziz prepares to graduate, she hopes to find someone new to run the program. She wants to continue building bridges between the campus and community while getting more kids to read. With a passion for reading and a drive to make a difference, Aziz’s future looks bright.
- She has already put 250,000 books into Camden kids’ hands since 2018.
- Her goal is to earn 300 hours of community service for the upcoming year.
In conclusion, the Free Books Project is a remarkable initiative that is revolutionizing reading in Camden. With its commitment to providing comics and graphic novels to kids, breaking down barriers, and inspiring a love for reading, it is an example of how one person can make a real difference in their community. As Feroza Aziz looks to the future, it is clear that the impact of this project will be felt for years to come.
