Sixth annual Heart for a Book fundraiser raises record amount

In the 6th year of the Christmas collection Heart for a Book, the Academic Library of the University of South Bohemia sold 1,122 books and raised a record CZK 58,150 for the ARPIDA Centre.
"Every year we are surprised by how many people join the collection. This year, the interest was really extraordinary and we are extremely grateful for it," says Helena Vorlová, director of the Academic Library, USB.
People donated more than 4,000 publications to the collection, which they brought to the Academic Library, helping them return to circulation with more readers. Children's books, detective stories, thrillers, cookbooks and comics were of great interest. For example, students from the nearby Faculty of Arts often bought older publications from the recommended reading list for study. People were also choosing Christmas presents for their loved ones, so they could do double duty. They paid a symbolic 50 CZK for each book, which goes to ARPIDA.

"We thank everyone who contributed by preparing, helping, or buying a book for their willingness to participate in helping people with disabilities. A book is a small world through which we get to know the big world, or dream about its shape, and, when combined with charity, it really brings a lot of joy. We will use the funds we have raised thanks to the USB Academic Library and all of the above for a psycho-rehabilitation stay for families of the early care social service, where they can gain strength, help, advice and time for themselves," says Marek Wohlgemuth, director of the ARPIDA Centre.

"The collection has a beautiful double effect, helping those in need and bringing people the joy of books at the same time. This is exactly what motivates us to continue," adds Helena Vorlová.
A selection of the newly donated books was continuously posted on social media. Overall, there was strong interest in the collection throughout the event.
To those who donated books or bought them, our heartfelt thanks!