The principal of the E.H. Slaybaugh Primary and Elementary School in Egg Harbor Township camped out in the cold Wednesday night to boost book donations for a school library book drive.
“I think it’s one of the coldest nights of the year so far,” said Principal Maryann Giardina. “I’ve got the tent up, an air mattress and a tiny heater — though I’m not sure how far it’s going to take me — and definitely some hot chocolate and friends.”
Giardina said the purpose of the camp site was to collect the final 500 books necessary to reach a 2,500 goal. The books will be used to supply learning stations in the school and a program in which students are sent home with books to read.
“Not everyone has access to a wide range of books,” she said.
— Wallace McKelvey