From East to West: 2250 books travel from Fairfield U. to Los Angeles
FAIRFIELD, Conn. - Nativity School in South Central, L.A., which just reopened this year after rebuilding rear walls destroyed during the 1994 earthquake, received a wonderful gift from students and friends at Fairfield University - 2,250 books to help rebuild a depleted library.
Paul Harrington, who graduated from Fairfield University in May and is volunteering this year at Nativity School, was dismayed to learn the children had so few books to inspire their interest in reading and learning. After reconstruction expenses at the school, there was no funding left for library books, so he turned to his college friends back in Connecticut. Carolyn Rusiackas, a university chaplain at Fairfield, spread the word to the students and before long a book drive was on.
Mrs. Rusiackas said it was just amazing how the project snowballed (a phrase they use in those northern climes!). She felt some of the response from the students was inspired by Jonathan Kozol, who opened the school year as the Convocation speaker. Mr. Kozol's award-winning books for the last 30 years have focused on children in poor environments and their need for quality education.
The cartons of books arrived as the children were leaving for Christmas break. Sister Judy, the principal of Nativity, plans to let the children help unpack the books when they return in January. Already Sister Judy has arranged for volunteers to build bookcases to hold the collection.
While Paul Harrington isn't surprised by the generosity of students, faculty and staff at his old school, he is elated. "This is wonderful news!" he emailed Carolyn Rusiackas when he found the books were coming. "I can't really explain the excitement behind receiving books...but I think the excitement comes from me through my students. Any addition to our library is a huge step in the right direction. I can tell you that Nativity School students and faculty are eagerly awaiting this generous gift!"
Sr. Judy and Paul may be reached at Nativity School after January 6 at:
323-752-0720. The Nativity School is located at 943 West 57th Street at the corner of Vermont Avenue and 57th Street.
VOL. 31, #138 ## December, 1998
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