United Way Installs Little Free Library Near Splash Pad

McKENZIE (November 19) — United Way of West Tennessee and the City of McKenzie have partnered to bring a new Little Free Library to the McKenzie community, expanding access to books for children and families.

Located on-site at the McKenzie Station Splash Pad Park, the Little Free Library is open to residents and community members of all ages — providing free, around-the-clock access to books. The initiative supports United Way’s ongoing efforts to promote early literacy and a lifelong love of reading across West Tennessee.

“Our goal is simple: we just want to put books in the hands of children and their families,” said Kaitlyn Mingle, director of early education initiatives at United Way of West Tennessee. “We are grateful for partnerships that allow us to do so, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to experience the joy of reading.”

The project was made possible through the generous donation of materials from Forcum Lannom Building Materials, Delta Siding and Carroll County Lumber, as well as the design and construction expertise of students and instructors at the Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) in Newbern.

The Little Free Library is stocked with a variety of titles for all reading levels, from board books for young readers to chapter books and family-friendly adult novels. Community members are encouraged to take a book and leave a book to help keep the library full and diverse.

This installation is part of United Way’s larger literacy initiatives, which includes programs such as “All Star Readers”and the “WOW Wagon,” both designed to encourage independent reading among young learners throughout West Tennessee.

Established in 1941, United Way of West Tennessee is a nonprofit organization that mobilizes communities to action so all can thrive. It serves 15 counties in West Tennessee with a focus on health, youth opportunity, financial stability and community resiliency.

For more information about United Way of West Tennessee’s early literacy efforts or to learn how you can donate books, visit www.uwwt.org