The Book Bridge's New Location Almost Ready to Accept Donations

Pam Weiss is ready for the books to start flying off the shelves at The Book Bridge and "into the hands of children and teens in long-term crisis situations who don't otherwise have access to books."

Thanks to the efforts of a Grayslake teen, Paul Marisca, and other volunteers, the shelves at The Book Bridge are organized and ready.

Weiss is the founder of The Book Bridge, which, until just a couple of weeks ago, operated out her home. She is now using the Grayslake District 46 ISC building near Grayslake Middle School, thanks to the district.

"Paul Marisca was instrumental in the move," said Weiss. "He had a positive attitude and took pride in his community service project. He motivated and led his troop in what was a physically exhausting morning.

"When we were having pictures taken together, I realized that this effort was a personal milestone for both of us. He's on his way to achieving Eagle Scout status, and my dreams for opening The Book Bridge Volunteer Center in my hometown were coming true," Weiss continued. "Not only did the scouts and their parents box up and move just over 7,000 books, but they shelved all the books according to age and genre, and then helped recycle all the cardboard. I hope they still look at books in a positive light!"

Weiss noted that "Barron Paint in Grayslake donated primer and paint, and Home Depot volunteers from Gurnee brought painting supplies and helped make our space bright and cheery for volunteers.

"It was truly a community effort!" said Weiss. 

While Weiss is still finalizing the schedule for when The Book Bridge will be open to accept donations, "we will make arrangement to accept book donations at 450 Barron Blvd. anytime. We are also happy to pick up large amounts of book donations."

"We rely on new and gently-used books and will always need to replenish the bookshelves," said Weiss. "With help from the community, The Book Bridge will expand to reach other local children. With an increase in books and volunteers, I can create more community service opportunities for those who want to help with our effort."

Visit The Book Bridge website for more information.