Library’s Operation Paperback Program Is a Mission for U.S. Service Members

For immediate release: October 24, 2019

Douglas County Libraries (DCL) and the DCL Foundation are proud to serve U.S. service members and their families with book donations through Operation Paperback, a national nonprofit organization. Since the program’s inception at DCL in 2014, more than 2,500 books of all genres have been donated to military members stateside and overseas. So far this year, 430 books have been donated.

The program is administered through DCL’s Lone Tree location by Branch Volunteer Coordinator Teresa LeFevre and library volunteers. Gently used paperbacks that are donated to the library and/or withdrawn from DCL’s collection are considered for Operation Paperback based on soldiers’ requests. According to LeFevre, volunteers are vital to the program, as is the DCL Foundation, which funds the mailing costs associated with it.

Lone Tree volunteer Jill Potter spends time each month packaging five to six boxes of books to be sent to service members. “If not for Jill, we would not be able to serve that population like we do,” LeFevre said.

Each month, volunteers review Operation Paperback’s list of books desired by soldiers and their families to determine which requests DCL can fill using the donated and withdrawn books available. The books are then packaged by Potter and mailed by LeFevre.

“The reach and purpose of this program is far and wide and so worthwhile,” said LeFevre. “I am thankful we have the ability and resources to contribute reading materials to our military personnel around the globe.”

All gently used paperback books donated at DCL’s Lone Tree location (10055 Library Way) are considered for Operation Paperback based on soldiers’ requests, DCL’s inventory, and what the library is able to send each month. Questions about the program may be directed to Teresa LeFevre at (303) 791-7323.

Veterans Day Celebration

In partnership with Highlands Ranch Metro District, DCL is hosting a Veterans Day Celebration at its Highlands Ranch location (9292 S. Ridgeline Blvd.) on Monday, November 11, from 6:30-8 p.m. The event is open to the public and no registration is required.

Human Book Volunteers Needed

Last year, veteran Jim Pierce volunteered as a “human book” at DCL’s Human Library event and shared his story of being drafted into the Vietnam War. DCL is again seeking human books with various life experiences for its 2020 Human Library event. Community members interested in sharing their stories are encouraged to apply by November 30, 2019. Applications are available at DCL.org/volunteer.

Douglas County Libraries elevates our community by inspiring a love of reading, discovery and connection.