James Patterson's $1.75M gift saved 467 school libraries
James Patterson initially pledged $1.25 million to support US school libraries but increased the donation to $1.75 million. This increase followed an overwhelming response from schools, revealing their pressing needs for resources. A total of 467 libraries benefited from the grants, funding books, technology, and repairs. The American Association of School Librarians recognized Patterson for his…
Bestselling author James Patterson pledged $1.75 million in March 2015 to support US school libraries, partnering with Scholastic Reading Club. The donation aimed to help libraries purchase books, improve resources, and address practical needs affecting children's access to reading materials. The American Association of School Librarians reported that 467 school libraries received grants through the initiative, with funds used for books, reading programs, technology, and repairs.
The response to Patterson's announcement far exceeded expectations, with over 28,000 applications received. Individual grants ranged from $1,000 to $10,000. The programme was designed to make funding accessible to schools, with teachers using Scholastic's Bonus Points to obtain additional classroom materials. The donation not only supported libraries but also highlighted the importance of book access in education, earning Patterson recognition from the American Association of School Librarians in 2016.
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