All over the world, people lack access to education, specifically reading. If people can't read, they can't continue their education to a higher level, which will help them get jobs and also learn. For people in the cycle of poverty, landing a good job could help them get themselves and their families out of dangerous and harmful circumstances. It also allows people to think critically and rationally, so they don’t have to blindly follow decisions made for them. This can help with voter awareness and participation. In all, the ability to read and understand is a crucial part of human life. There are many factors that There are many causes. In some developing countries, conflicts disrupt school education. Schools can be unequipped to provide their students with adequate reading material and curriculum. The cost of college is going up, which can lead to some people not being able to continue their education. Immigrating to places where you don't speak the language is a large deterrent for immigrants seeking a better education.

My main goal was to hold a book drive at HHS. It took place November 18-24, and thankully, completed it. I raised a total of 447 books, which were donated to Abby's House and Rosie's Place, two non-profit organizations. Additionally, I collected books from the Holliston Public Library to add to my donations.   Apart from collecting, I was in constant contact with our administration to ensure my project went smoothly. This was not easy, as I had to wait many days for a response, and even had to try and set up a meeting several times to get an answer, but thankfully I got a response and the go-ahead. I have also been advertising my drive and educating people on illiteracy online on my project's Instagram page (linked below). From the library, I collected three boxes and four bags (around 182 books). I expected to get mostly kid's books from the drive at school, so I made sure to pick a variety of genres for a large age range. This includes children's stories, history, self-help, skills, fiction, art, anime, cooking, gardening, and so much more. Contacting the library also proved difficult, as I had to email both the staff and the Friends of the Library, and even go to the library and speak with a staff member. However, it paid off and I am so grateful for the help and donated books. From the school, I gained 265 more books to add to the 182. They were donated on 12/14/2024 and 12/27/2024  to Abby's  House and Rosie's Place, respectively.  They were very accommodating and I loved working with them! I am so happy with how this project came out, and I intend to continue it for my Capstone, perhaps spreading to farther parts of the U.S, or even out of the country.