(Media release from Toles, Temple & Wright, Inc.)
Just in time for summer break, five new miniature lending libraries have been placed across Rome and Floyd County. This collection of “Community Book Nooks” represent a unique collaboration between public, private and non-profit organizations, including the Rome-Floyd Parks and Recreation Authority, the Rome Floyd County Commission on Children and Youth, and the Floyd County Corrections Department. The program is being sponsored and spearheaded by Heath Rogers, a REALTOR at Toles, Temple & Wright, Inc.
“Whenever we’re out and about and my kids spot one of these libraries, they really enjoy being able to visit and pick from them,” said Rogers. “I see firsthand the excitement that each visit brings, and the pure joy on their faces when they get to trade in a book for a new one to read.”
The Community Book Nooks were installed in five locations across Floyd County earlier this week: Etowah Park, North Floyd Park, Ridge Ferry Park, Riverview Park and Shag Williams Park. Each free-standing structure is located adjacent to a playground and contains an assortment of books for readers at all levels. Only a small handful of similar libraries exist in the community and very few of them are located in public areas. This initiative is the first of its kind in the local public park system.
“I felt like this would be a good way to provide books to children of all ages – easily accessible through our parks – at a crucial time, keeping their minds enriched and active while school is out,” added Rogers.
Putting roofs over the nearly 500 books that were donated to help jump-start summer reading was no small feat. In addition to coordinating the community effort, Rogers donated all the construction materials for the miniature libraries. After first meeting with Rome-Floyd Parks and Recreation Authority director Todd Wofford, who was very supportive and enthusiastic about the idea, Rogers worked with Floyd County warden Mike Long to put together material lists and timeframes. Each book nook was created utilizing the talents of the Floyd County prisoners who designed and built the structures.
“It is our goal to be able to provide high quality, diverse and accessible programs, services, and facilities that positively influence and cater to all children – not just those who are interested in athletics,” said Wofford. “It is very important for us to be an all-encompassing resource that helps our youngest citizens to develop in every aspect of life. We appreciate Heath for allowing us to partner on this initiative and providing another touchpoint that helps us to meet our mission to enhance our community’s quality of life.”
After a brief request for donations of books was shared on social media, Rome Floyd County Commission on Children and Youth executive director LaDonna Collins and programs and initiatives coordinator Kim Headrick immediately stepped up to meet the need. Parks and Recreation staff installed the structures at the five sites, and the Community Book Nooks were filled by the Rogers family.
“I am very grateful to our community partners for the support and the teamwork that made everything come together in record time,” said Rogers. “I am very excited to see what the response is like for this special project.”
Each Community Book Nook will be accessible daily during regular park hours. Donations will continue to be accepted based on need and fit for the program. For more information about the Community Book Nooks, including a map detailing each park location, visit TolesTemple.com/booknook or contact Heath Rogers at heath@ttwrome.com and 678-378-1050.
