Books Are Treasures

How We Started

Books Are Treasures (BAT) Inc. was founded on September 3, 2019, as a tribute to a lifelong passion for education and the profound impact of one extraordinary woman—my mother. For over 28 years, she dedicated herself as a Classroom Aide, ensuring that every child she encountered had the opportunity to learn, grow, and experience the transformative power of books. She understood that reading was more than just a skill—it was a gateway to knowledge, self-discovery, and limitless possibilities.
Her unwavering belief in the power of literacy shaped my own journey, and when she passed away on February 8, 2016, I knew I had to honor her legacy in a meaningful way. From that deep sense of purpose, Books Are Treasures, Inc. 501(c)(3) was born—a nonprofit dedicated to igniting a love for books in young minds and ensuring that every child has access to the literary treasures that can shape their future.
Our mission is not just about books; it’s about building a world where every child sees themselves as a scholar, a dreamer, and a creator of their own destiny.

Our First Event Bench Dedication 2021

The Bench

Finding Inspiration in Every Turn

My Mother told me a story about a spring day. She was coming from the salon. She felt really good that day because she had just gotten her hair done. It was a spring day, she had on her "cardigan" sweater. Think the mid-1950s..., North Philadelphia, the Columbia Avenue Free Library, yep, that's the place. After getting her hair done, she wanted to get a "good book", and sit under a tree. It sounds like a really nice day, a day she remembered so much that she shared it with me. So, I want to share that with others. Each year on Labor Day weekend BAT gathers at this bench giving away good books for individuals to read on this bench under this tree.