In a unique twist on their usual work, FBI agents in the D.C. area put down evidence boxes and picked up book boxes, delivering an impressive 2,000 books to J.C. Nalle Elementary School. This initiative was inspired by the FBI’s Junior Special Agent program, which partners with the school to introduce students to the skills and dedication needed for a career in the FBI. On the first day of the program, agents greeted students and parents, sparking an idea that would make a lasting impact.
The idea for the book drive took root when a parent mentioned that the school’s free little libraries could use more books. Soon after, FBI agents and staff throughout the D.C. region began purchasing new books and donating gently-used ones from home. Their efforts culminated in a book delivery that filled the school with excitement and appreciation.
Key in organizing this drive was Nicole Mines, a community outreach specialist with the Washington Field Office. Mines arranged book collection boxes at multiple office locations, and the donations quickly piled up. Reflecting on the experience, she shared, “Seeing all those books brought me back to my own childhood and made me nostalgic. It was an amazing feeling.”
The donation allowed every child to take home more than one book, addressing a real need. Fifth grader Stephen Wright expressed his gratitude, saying, “Thank you, because I love books. I can’t go a day without one.” His teacher, Cheryl Alexander, emphasized how this support reinforces the importance of reading daily and makes her role more rewarding.
The book drive has made a meaningful difference for students and families alike, ensuring that even more children in the community can experience the joy of reading.
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Photo: Getty