Deptford Mall’s annual back-to-school book drive begins Thursday and continues through Sunday, Sept. 15.
The effort is meant to promote literacy and provide children in need with access to books. Individuals can donate gently-used and new children’s titles, as well adult titles. The drive supports BookSmiles, the local nonprofit dedicated to fostering literacy among young readers without access to books.
Hours for the drive are 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the mall’s center court, near Macy’s. Donors will also find activities that include face painting, balloon sculpting, crafts, games and prizes. Participants are asked to donate books in exchange for tickets to those activities.
Book donation bins will also be available at upcoming mall events, including the August Kid’s Mini Theater Show on Thursday, Aug. 22, at 10 a.m., 11 a.m. and noon; the Family Football Fest on Saturday, Aug. 31, from 1 to 5 p.m.; and Overtime Promotions’ Phillies appearance on Thursday, Sept. 12, from 5:30 to 7:45 p.m.
Those unable to donate books can make monetary contributions to BookSmiles online at www.Booksmiles.org/Donate. Specify Deptford Mall in the comment section to ensure your contribution is credited to the book drive.
“Deptford Mall is proud to support BookSmiles in their mission to foster literacy in our community,” said Lori Belsito, the mall’s senior marketing manager. ” … We look forward to the positive impact it will have on local children and families.”
For more information, go to www.Booksmiles.org or the mall’s website.
