Delco Book Bank’s holiday drive aims to spark love of reading in local children

This holiday season, a local nonprofit is aiming to boost literacy and ignite young imaginations by putting more books in the hands of children in need.

Delco Book Bank, a volunteer-run organization founded by an early intervention professional, says on its website that 16,000 Delaware County children live in poverty — and families struggling to pay for necessities may not be able to prioritize purchasing enriching toys and books. But children who have a library of books to enjoy at home “have a stronger foundation for language and reading skills,” the organization notes.

Therefore, the Delco Book Bank is collecting both new books and monetary donations this month for its 2025 Holiday Book Drive.

Those interested in contributing can purchase books from the group’s Amazon wish list, which will then be distributed to families with young children through Murphy’s Giving Market this month. Or people who prefer a physical bookstore can purchase and donate books at Moore Books located at 28 W. Eagle Road in Havertown.

Books can also be dropped off at Rep. Heather Boyd’s office (6 S. Springfield Road in Clifton Heights) or Rep. Gina Curry’s office (1500 Garrett Road in Upper Darby). Finally, monetary donations can be made by clicking on the orange “donate” button on the Delco Book Bank’s website.