Spreading the Joy of Reading: How One El Pasoan is Transforming Lives Through Books

In a heartwarming initiative, an El Pasoan is on a mission to ignite a passion for reading among children, all while honoring a personal tragedy that transformed into a beacon of hope. Susan Patterson, the dedicated manager of a local bookstore, "Books are Gems," is making waves in the community by ensuring that the joy of reading reaches every child.

A Tribute Born from Tragedy

The roots of this inspiring project lie in a profound loss. Susan explains, “The idea came about out of a tragedy.” This mission began with Miss Paula Madrid, a South El Paso teacher who started collecting books after her teenage daughter tragically lost her life in a car accident. "Her daughter loved to read, so she wanted to honor her memory," Patterson shares. This heartfelt endeavor has blossomed into a vital resource for readers of all ages.

The Heart of "Books are Gems"

"Books are Gems" is not just a bookstore; it’s a non-profit organization that has been enriching the community for over 20 years. Patterson describes the joy of seeing beloved childhood books on the shelves, waiting for new readers. “We probably have close to 200 people come in a week,” she says, noting that families often pick out books for themselves or for classrooms.

Free Books for All

• Up to 9 free books available each week for visitors.
• Weekly story hours, including engaging Saturday sessions on Facebook Live.
• A welcoming environment where children can explore the wonders of literature.

These free resources are vital for many families who struggle to access books. “It feels really good to help out the community,” Patterson states. She believes that access to books can significantly impact children's futures, helping them become successful and productive individuals.

A Community That Cares

The bookstore is also a hub for community support, accepting donations of children's and adult books, as well as educational materials for teachers. Recently, "Books are Gems" made significant contributions to Ruidoso libraries that suffered damage from flooding, showcasing the power of community solidarity.

Recognizing Dedication

For her unwavering commitment, Susan Patterson has earned the title of ABC-7’s Do-Gooder of the Month. She will donate the accompanying $1,000 award to "Books are Gems" to further fuel their literacy efforts. "A lot of people don’t realize how many don’t have access to free books or teaching materials," she emphasizes, reiterating the importance of their mission.

Join the Movement!

Do you want to make a difference in the community? You can nominate someone who embodies the spirit of giving like Susan for ABC-7's Do-Gooder recognition. Just follow the provided link to submit your nomination.

What do you think?

• Should more communities invest in free bookstores to promote literacy?
• Is it enough to just provide books, or should there be more programs to engage children in reading?
• What role do parents play in fostering a love for reading in their children?
• How can we ensure that children from low-income families have access to quality reading materials?

Join the conversation and let us know your thoughts on how we can collectively promote literacy and empower the next generation through the love of reading!