The idea for a book fair at Trailview Apartments in Bellingham, WA began in December when Village Books, a local and beloved bookstore in Whatcom County, donated many books in hopes they would be given to residents.

One of the main goals for our Mercy Scholars program is to improve literacy among school-aged youth. One of the significant roadblocks we encounter is access to books. This ongoing challenge got Resident Services Coordinator Emily Wollebek thinking, “Why not host a book fair?”

“I decided to host the fair in March to give myself the opportunity to secure more books, but I also wanted to celebrate Dr. Seuss’ birthday, as well as Read Across America,” Emily explained.

After that initial donation of books, Emily reached out to Northern Heights Elementary in hopes that they could attend. Thrilled by the idea, they offered to host their book drive in support of the Book Fair.

Hundreds of books donated at book fair

For three weeks, Bellingham Public Schools families brought books to the school. Unsure of how many books they would receive, Emily also reached out to other local organizations, including clubs at Western Washington University, Bellingham Public Library, Watermark Book Company, Pelican Bay Books, and Coffeehouse.

This outreach led to hundreds of donated books. With books in English, as well as countless books in other languages, covering all age ranges, participants could take home an unlimited number of books.

“I am honored to live in such a giving community, and want to thank all those who donated, and all those partners who made this project possible. To see so many happy residents carrying bags of books home was immeasurable.”