During the summer of 2012, JusticeworX (a faith and justice non-profit organization) sent a group of volunteers to Dunlow, West Virginia, for a service project.  Located in the southwestern region of the state, Dunlow residents face enormous challenges and hardships due to economic conditions in this part of Appalachia. 

     While working at Dunlow Elementary School, the volunteers realized there was no formal library for the students; part of the gymnasium was used as a makeshift library.  Upon their return to New Jersey, the JusticeworX volunteers decided to establish a 900 square feet library at the elementary school. 

     In August, 2012, one of the adult volunteers contacted The Rural Library Project with a request for help.  We provided capital campaign ideas and worked with him to develop an interior layout for the new library. 

     Working with the Dunlow community, school officials and staff, and corporate supporters, the volunteers raised $40,000, and the school library was completed in time for the start of the 2013 academic year.  A book drive is underway to stock the shelves with 10,000 volumes.

To learn more about this project, please visit www.dunlowschoollibrary.com.