WePAC Volunteers Running Libraries In Philadelphia Public Schools

By Dr. Marciene Mattleman

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Amalie Jones, a second grader goes to a Philadelphia public school and her parents have been concerned by the lack of a nurse and counselor. What they didn't realize is that in 80% of the city's schools there's not a functioning library, and her school is one of them.

Fortunately, Amalie lives in West Philadelphia where WePAC, the alliance for children, a non-profit organization, is making a great contribution, operating 12 formerly closed libraries in the city's public elementary schools, primarily in south and west Philadelphia.

One hundred twenty-five volunteers serve more than 4,000 children each week focusing on pre-K to 3rd graders, the most critical years in developing literacy skills - reading stories, helping kids select and check out books - experiences most of the children don't get at home.

To help in a WePAC library, donate books, or be a Library Buddy working with individual kids, email wepac.org, to join a program serving an important need.