I recall the moment I opened a book in my children’s preschool, ready to read to a group of eager four-year-olds. A label on the book’s inside cover caught my attention. It had been donated in memory of a child who tragically passed away at birth. The only reason I recognized the name was that she was the niece of a friend whose children had attended the same preschool years earlier.
In that instant, I paused, contemplating the profound sorrow of the parents who had lost their child just as they held her for the first time. I envisioned a little one who would never grow to experience the joys of listening to stories, like the one I was about to read. Yet, amidst the sadness, I felt a sense of warmth. Books connect us not only to those we share them with but also to those we wish could join us.
No one knows this connection better than the family of Dr. Maya Thompson, which is why they founded Maya’s Libraries—a remarkable literacy initiative in her memory that has united communities through the gift of over 35,000 books.
In August 2018, Dr. Maya Thompson, a beloved educator, passed away unexpectedly at the age of 32 after a brief illness. She left behind her devoted husband, three children, and countless families who cherished her vibrant spirit. Dr. Thompson taught English at Harmony Academy and inspired many to foster a love for reading. Just over a year since its inception, Maya’s Libraries has donated more than 35,000 books to over 350 organizations across the United States, Puerto Rico, and Israel.
Dr. Thompson’s passion for children’s literacy transformed into a heartfelt project led by her husband, Alex Carter, and a close friend, Sarah Johnson. After Maya’s passing, Alex and Sarah set up collection boxes at the Harmony Academy, encouraging people to donate gently used or new books. Within days, they realized that they could support over 20 organizations. As donations poured in, Maya’s Libraries began sending out boxes containing 50-60 books at a time.
“The organizations we partner with serve children and families in need, including those with special needs,” Sarah shared with Home Insemination Kit. “Many work with kids from communities where access to books is severely limited, such as homeless shelters and low-income schools.”
Recently, Maya’s Libraries was approached to provide books for the NICU at Harmony Children’s Medical Center in Long Island. Since the books needed to be brand new to protect the infants’ health, a collaboration with Disney Publishing Worldwide enabled them to donate over 200 new books to the facility.
Now, parents can read to their children, and siblings also benefit from the selection provided by Maya’s Libraries. Prominent publishers like Scholastic, Hachette, Penguin Random House, and Simon & Schuster have joined in, supplying new books to support this noble cause, extending their reach into medical settings.
Sarah emphasized the program’s commitment to fulfilling as many requests as possible to provide children with books and realize Maya’s dream of nurturing young readers.
As for Maya’s own children, twins Lila and Jake are now nine, while Mia is five and Leo is three. They understand the mission of the literacy program and the reason behind its establishment. Alex reflected on parenting in such circumstances: “Navigating this journey is challenging. I’ve encouraged the kids to be open about their feelings and experiences, and I strive to model that honesty. We talk about Maya often, and I believe the Libraries project has been a positive outlet for us.”
The children take pride in their involvement, whether by adding labels to the books or helping pack boxes. “It can be heartbreaking for me, but for them, it feels like life, and if their involvement means contributing to a positive community project, then that’s a good thing,” Alex noted.
Maya’s Libraries is not only addressing the needs of families and children but also fostering connections on an international level. Alex highlighted the significance of partnering with organizations that support diverse populations, recognizing the impact of his wife’s legacy.
While Maya’s Libraries is a fulfilling endeavor, it does come with operational costs. Each shipment box costs $25, and they have received over 450 requests for shipments when local delivery wasn’t feasible. Due to the overwhelming number of books donated, a storage unit is necessary to accommodate the inventory waiting for distribution. Those interested in supporting Maya’s Libraries can visit their website to donate. Sponsors can have their name or logo displayed on the boxes as an incentive.
The loss of Dr. Maya Thompson will forever resonate with those who knew her as a mother, friend, and teacher. Yet, the labels bearing her name that find their way into the hands of children provide a sense of purpose amid the sorrow.
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Summary
Dr. Maya Thompson’s legacy lives on through Maya’s Libraries, a literacy program created in her memory. The initiative has donated over 35,000 books to organizations supporting children and families in need. Led by her husband and a close friend, the program continues to foster a love for reading while addressing the challenges many face in accessing books. The involvement of her children further enriches this heartfelt endeavor, ensuring that Maya’s spirit endures.
Keyphrase: Maya’s Libraries
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