The University of Alabama is observing Black History month with a book drive all through February. The effort is to benefit counties in the state's Black Belt region. Donors are being asked to provide books that are appropriate for kids in grades K-12. The program is run by the University of Alabama’s Center for Economic Development.
Spokesman Anna Katbay says the donations will be divided among schools in 13 counties.
“We believe that at the root of that mission is education. Education is not only critical in these communities, but things like literacy can be quite life changing for a child,” Katbay said. “And we’ve found that the Black Belt region is not only kind of underserved, but often overlooked by a lot of communities.”
Donations are being accepted at spots around the UA campus, including Honors Hall, Oliver-Barnard Hall, the Reese Phifer Hall rotunda, Tuomey Hall and the Student Government Association office. Katbay says the Black Belt areas are often overlooked and underserved by communities in Alabama.
“In order to fulfill our mission, and in order to improve education across the state quite honestly, we think that starting in this region and expanding is a great goal for us and anybody else wanting to really foster education in Alabama,” Katbay said.
The University of Alabama Center of Economic Development website has information for those looking to donate. Donors can provide books from now until Feb. 25.
