Rebuilding Hope: Restoring Libraries After Devastating Wildfires

The recent Los Angeles County wildfires left behind widespread destruction, with over 1,000 structures damaged or reduced to ashes—including schools and libraries. These spaces weren’t just buildings; they were essential learning hubs where children discovered the magic of reading and communities found solace. 

The loss of these educational sanctuaries created a profound gap in literacy, learning, and emotional well-being. But in the face of devastation, a movement of hope and resilience has emerged—one that is proving the power of books to rebuild both libraries and lives. 

A Community’s Unbreakable Spirit

Thanks to the Beverly Hills Unified School District, passionate community members, and over 200 dedicated authors, a remarkable book donation campaign is helping restore what was lost. To date, nearly 2,500 books have been donated, bringing joy and resources back to young learners. 

The hashtag #BooksBringsLibrariesBackToLife has become a powerful symbol of hope, renewal, and the magic of storytelling, inspiring people nationwide to take action. 

The Power of a Book Donation Campaign

This initiative highlights how collective action can create real change. Every book donated represents more than just words on a page—it’s a message of hope to children who lost their literary sanctuaries. 

A special acknowledgment goes to Kristi R. Bradbury (@kristirbradbury) for spearheading this campaign, coordinating donations, and ensuring that books find their way into the hands of children who need them most. Her dedication and passion have played a crucial role in making this vision a reality.  She has donated copies of her three books to the project:

Click on image to go to the book review by @fivelittledumplings

How You Can Help Rebuild Libraries 

Want to be part of this meaningful effort? Here’s how you can help: 

📚 Donate Books: Support the rebuilding of libraries by purchasing books from the official wishlist at [bhusd.org/books](http://bhusd.org/books). Every contribution helps restore lost collections and provides children with access to the joy of reading. 

✨ Support the Authors: Many talented authors donated their works to this cause. Show appreciation by reading, reviewing, and sharing their books—a simple act that helps amplify their generosity. 

💙 Spread the Word: Share this story on social media using #BooksBringsLibrariesBackToLife to inspire others to get involved. 

Discover Heartwarming Children's Books

Below are the books I have donated:

📖 Books For Benjamin – A touching tale about a book-loving worm who is different He would rather read about adventures in a giant peach than eat one. But all he finds are old newspapers and magazines with tomato splotches. Join Benjamin on his journey to find real books. This beautifully illustrated story inspires a love of reading and teaches the importance of perseverance. 

🐘 Mother To Elephants – A heartwarming true story about Dame Daphne Sheldrick, who dedicated her life to rescuing orphaned elephants in Africa with a goal of returning to the wild. This book teaches young readers about compassion, wildlife conservation, and the power of kindness. 

If, you would like to help a teacher replace a book or two for their classroom library head on over to  [bhusd.org/books](http://bhusd.org/books) to see what books have been put into a wishlist.