Replenishing Home Libraries in Western North Carolina
By Caitlyn Smith, Associate Director of Procurement and Logistics, Book Harvest
On December 9, my colleagues and I found ourselves driving west in the Book Harvest book
truck toward the mountains of North Carolina, where families and communities are still rebuilding from the devastation of Hurricane Helene. What began as a simple plan to drop off children’s books to one school quickly expanded into a full-day journey to deliver 6,123 children’s books to five amazing partners throughout the region. With every stop, I was struck not just by the devastation, but also by the resilience and grit of the people we met, the love they have for their communities, and the unstoppable sense of hope they’ve cultivated amidst unspeakable loss and disruption. It was a privilege to show up for them.
Asheville Dream Center
Our first stop was the Asheville Dream Center, where we delivered 2,000 books that became part of a massive event at Biltmore Gardens this past weekend; families received toys, shoes, blankets, warm clothing, and even turkeys. I spoke with a team member who told me, “We’re trying to bless anyone and everyone.”
Walking through their space, I could feel the energy of a community coming together. The Dream Center is more than a resource hub; it’s a lifeline. I’m honored we could contribute to their efforts, knowing the books will reach hundreds of children who deserve joy this holiday season.
W.D. Williams Elementary School
Next, we arrived in Swannanoa at W.D. Williams Elementary School, where we delivered 1,500 books. Each of the school’s 430 students will get to select three books to take home over winter break and keep forever.
As we brought the boxes of books into the school, I could feel the love and joy that filled the hallways. Banners declaring “Welcome back!” and “We missed you” were poignant reminders that these kids lost a month of school and are working hard to maintain normalcy. For a school that has faced immense challenges, our small act of providing books felt deeply significant.
Read to Succeed Asheville
We also provided 650 books for Read to Succeed Asheville/Buncombe, an organization doing incredible work to provide literacy tutoring and support for families. Two of the organization's powerhouse leaders, Jess McLean and Ashley Allen, shared how their organization adapted when the storm hit, pausing their community literacy events and tutoring services to help with food pantries and other emergency needs. But, as Jess put it, “Literacy will always be immediate and long-term.” They quickly resumed their literacy services, though things look a little different at the moment—a testament to their agility and vast commitment to every child’s success.
McDowell County Schools
We delivered 700 books to McDowell County Schools, with the hope that they bring a little light into classrooms and homes after an especially devastating and disruptive fall for students. The books will go to students at Old Fort Elementary School, which is now closed until August, and Pleasant Gardens Elementary School which is temporarily housing Old Fort students.
As we spoke with Vicki White, a longtime resident and representative of the school district, I thought about what these books represent—not just stories or lessons, but opportunities for a mental escape, discovery, and comfort. Vicki said that she’s extremely proud of how hard the school district has worked to help their community recover. Their goal is “to get people through Christmas. Then through the spring. Then through the summer.” One step at a time.
Madison County Library
We also provided books to Madison County Library, where three boxes of books became part of their effort to rebuild what was lost. Their library was hit hard, and they’re essentially starting over. A library is a place of learning, yes, but it is also a place where the community gathers, connects, and finds refuge. This community has a long road ahead of them, and we were grateful to help in some small way.
Finding Gratitude in the Mountains
This trip was humbling. In every place we visited, I saw devastation, but more importantly, I saw hope. I met people who love their community fiercely and who are committed to seeing it restored. Their work is heroic, and it’s rooted in care and persistence.
As we drove home that evening, the Book Harvest truck now empty of books, I thought about the future. We’re already making plans to support Western North Carolina in 2025, alongside incredible partners like these. If you feel moved to join this effort, there are so many ways to help—whether by donating books, supporting local organizations, or simply spreading the word. Together, we can ensure every child has the tools they need to dream big.
Stay tuned for more information to come! In the meantime, you can reach out to Mary Mathew at mary@bookharvest.org if you have questions about donating books to support the relief efforts in Western North Carolina or about receiving books to support your school or organization’s rebuilding efforts in Western North Carolina.
To our friends both old and new in Western North Carolina: we are here for you, and we are inspired by you.
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Caitlyn Smith - Caitlyn leads book acquisition and provision activities at Book Harvest. She implements strategic and efficient book provision systems and directs efficiency in all of our facilities.