Poring through 100 newly donated books, Mariner Middle School sixth-grade students are celebrating the joy of reading, thanks to a statewide literacy initiative and the generosity of volunteers and community members across Delaware. 

The State Office of Volunteerism, a division of the Delaware Department of Health and Social Services, and the 9/11 Day of Service & Remembrance Foundation have partnered to develop Read Across Delaware, a statewide service project focused on supporting students and promoting literacy.

Read Across Delaware volunteers Burt and Kathy Leahy visited Mariner to deliver books directly into the hands of sixth-grade readers. The books were generously donated by members of the Delaware community and dedicated volunteers who recognize the power of reading and the importance of giving back. The donation gives these Mariner students new opportunities to discover stories, explore new ideas and develop a lifelong love of reading.

“Books have the power to open doors, spark curiosity and help students see the world in new ways,” said Nichole O’Brien, Mariner Middle School reading specialist. “We are incredibly grateful to the volunteers and community members who made this donation possible and helped bring the joy of reading to our students.”