Hurricane Katrina not only swept away homes and businesses, but also destroyed untold volumes of stored knowledge and literature as the storm’s waters inundated libraries and schools.
Now, thanks to a drive held by students at Helen Keller Elementary School, more than 1,000 books will help restock the library at Abney Elementary School in Slidell, La.
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The books, collected in October, were loaded on a truck at the United Center on Thursday as part of relief efforts spearheaded by the Bulls’ Chris Duhon and his mother, Vivian.
“So many people go to escape at the library, and the library is really important to the community,” said Paula Aggelopoulos, who helped organize the book drive. “You’re so sad, and everything around you is sad and you can’t even go get a book.”
All of the donated books are new or lightly used and age-appropriate for students at Abney, which serves children in kindergarten through 5th grade.
At first, Aggelopoulos was rebuffed by relief organizations, which claimed not to need books. She persisted, however, and eventually received a call from Vivian Duhon, who had heard that the Slidell school was seeking books.
“It made me feel real good to help the hurricane victims,” said Kaitlin Siano, a 4th grader who donated six books.
Abney Principal Jane Freeman said the school reopened in mid-October and since has received donations of books and school supplies from other individuals and organizations.