Rotary Club of Ending Child Abuse shares project of DEI Little Free Library

JACKSONVILLE, N.C. (WITN) - The Rotary Club of Ending Child Abuse has teamed up with local nonprofit One Place to make sure every child feels included.

Together, they’ve launched Little Free Library focused on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI).

While there are 90 free libraries across Onslow County, this one stands out for its focus on making sure every child can see themselves in the stories they read.

“I might be able to find an image in a children’s book where a child is wearing a pair of glasses,” said Stacey Knox, a Rotary Club of Ending Child Abuse member. “That looks like me and I can associate and feel comfortable with that.”

Knox says several protective factors go into the project, including a strong foundation between a parent and child. She says it’s not just for their relationship, but also supporting the language and literacy development of a young child.

WITN spoke with a parent about the involvement and initiative of the project. She says books are important, no matter your age.

“One thing that I love about books is that it gives children an opportunity to experience something they’ve never experienced before,” said parent Karen Nilan. “Whether that be a family situation or a new place.”

The library is located at the Plaza Manor Apartments off Plaza Drive.

“This is a community where a lot of adults and children live,” said Knox. “In this community, people are in walking distance to a little free library. They come and access books.”

The project was funded by the Rotary District 7730 DEI Committee and club fundraisers. Nilan says she’s excited for her kids to not only read new books but also learn the value of giving back.

“I think it’s a great opportunity for them to have access to books that they’ve never read before,” said Nilan. “It’s also a great opportunity for them to give back to the community.”

The Rotary Club of Ending Child Abuse was founded in Onslow County in 2021.