A love of the written word unites students in the National English Honor Society at Wantagh High School, and now they are sharing that interest beyond their community. The chapter just wrapped up a book drive, with all donations going to the Book Fairies. 

Hundreds of new and gently used books for children and teens were dropped off in the lobby during the two-week collection that ended on Jan. 17. Now, honor society members will sort the books by age level before they are picked up later this month.

The Books Fairies, a nonprofit organization based in Freeport, will then distribute the donations to schools and libraries in under-resourced communities on Long Island and in New York City. 

Adviser Alisa Lopera said this is the honor society’s second annual book drive and it is the group’s largest community service project of the year. Juniors Danny Donahue, Lea Vagnone and Sophia Zanelotti comprise the book drive committee and promoted it by hanging fliers around the school, posting on social media and through word of mouth.

Lea said that donations exceeded their expectations. Danny noted that many students, like him, contributed their old children’s books from home that were still in good condition but hadn’t been read in years. 

Sophia added that Wantagh High School clubs host many collection drives throughout the year that fulfill a variety of needs. The book drive will ensure that children across the region can experience the same enjoyment of literature.