ULS to Collect Books For Earthquake Victims

Pitt’s University Library System (ULS) is calling on local schools, individuals, and organizations to donate new and used English-language materials to help rebuild school libraries in Sichuan Province, site of the 8.0 earthquake that shook that region on May 12.

A longtime partner with leading Chinese university libraries, the ULS plans to send the books to Dujiangyan City, Sichuan. The school, lost 278 students and 6 teachers in the quake. The Arizona State University (ASU) libraries also are participating in the drive. ULS director Rush Miller and ASU library director Sherrie Schmidt along with other ULS personnel, will travel to China in September to present the books to school officials.

Donated materials—books, CDs, and DVDs in literature, history, science, and the arts—must be in good condition and appropriate for children in grades 7 through 12.

Boxes should be marked “Rebuilding School Libraries, Sichuan Earthquake” and can be brought to Hillman Library, 3960 Forbes Ave., Oakland.

Staff at the ground floor and first-floor lending desks and at the second-floor East Asian Library information desk will receive materials through June 30. Those needing more information or assistance with their donation may call 412-648-7710.

As of May 22, the earthquake death toll stood at 51,151, and another 288,431 people were injured. The quake destroyed many schools and thousands of other buildings.