Olivia Singleton’s efforts have delivered thousands of books and inspired community support
Olivia Singleton, an eighth-grade honors student at Blythewood Middle School and president of the school’s Beta Club, is turning her love of literacy into a mission to make books more accessible to children throughout the community.
What began as a simple idea to host a free book fair has grown into a community-supported literacy project that has reached children with books, created new reading opportunities and earned Olivia the Girl Scout Silver Award.
In March 2026, Olivia distributed more than 1,700 books to approximately 100 children. Her call for book donations reached supporters across the country, demonstrating how one student’s initiative can inspire people well beyond her own community.
Her efforts continued with support from the Little Free Library organization, which donated a library and books. Olivia dedicated the library and placed it at Doko Park, creating another opportunity for children and families to discover the joy of reading.
Most recently, the Build-A-Bear Foundation donated nearly 50 Reading Buddy teddy bears and approximately 75 books. Olivia is preparing to distribute the items to children in the community, pairing the gift of reading with a comforting companion.
Olivia’s project reflects more than a commitment to collecting and distributing books. It demonstrates how a young person can recognize a community need, develop an idea and turn it into meaningful action.
Through her work, she is helping children build their personal libraries, encouraging a love of reading and showing other young people that they can make a difference, regardless of their age.
The growing support from organizations and donors also highlights the impact of community partnerships in advancing literacy and creating opportunities for children.
With each book she shares and each new initiative she undertakes, Olivia continues to advance her mission to “keep the pages turning.”
