
Contributed
Bladen County, NC – January 24, 2025 – Bladen Community College, in collaboration with Bladen Smart Start, is proud to announce the establishment of its Little Free Library. This initiative is part of the college’s broader commitment to educational outreach and community enrichment, and it represents a significant step toward the development of a new education center at the Booker T. Washington site.
The Little Free Library will serve as a vital resource, providing free access to books for all ages. With an emphasis on literacy and learning, this initiative is designed to foster a stronger connection between the college and the local community, promoting lifelong learning, reading, and education.
The Little Free Library operates on a simple yet powerful concept: “Take a book, leave a book.” It is a community-driven initiative where people can freely access books and contribute to the collection.
Individuals are encouraged to take a book that interests them, no matter their age, and, when possible, leave a book in return for others to enjoy. This exchange fosters a sense of sharing and community while making books accessible to everyone, regardless of financial or geographical barriers. The library is open to all, and there are no membership requirements—just an open invitation for people to explore new reading materials, share their love of books, and help grow a culture of literacy.
Partnership with Bladen Smart Start
Bladen Smart Start, a statewide organization dedicated to promoting early childhood literacy, will partner with Bladen Community College to ensure a wide range of books are available at the Little Free Library. From children’s books to materials for adults, the collection will cater to the diverse needs of the Clarkton community, helping to address gaps in access to educational resources.
A Commitment to Education and Community Building
With the establishment of the Little Free Library, made possible by a Bladen Community College Foundation Mini Grant, the college continues its dedication to enhancing educational opportunities for the Clarkton community and Bladen County at large. The creation of this library is just one of the many steps the college is taking to establish its presence in the area and support the development of a community-centered education space.
“We are deeply committed to creating educational opportunities that make a lasting impact,” said Dr. Amanda Lee, President of Bladen Community College. “The Little Free Library is a reflection of our mission to be a resource and partner in the growth of the Clarkton community.”
For more information about the Little Free Library or the upcoming education center at Booker T. Washington, please contact: Dr. Deana Guido – Bladen Community College by email at dguido@bladencc.edu