Page 13 “ “ Community project inspires reading By Shauna DeBodt It is always inspiring to hear of the accomplishments school district staff complete during their work days. It is particularly extraordinary to hear of their achievements made outside of the schools or office. I recently attended a meeting comprised of Leadership Vancouver Island (LVI) students. Included in that group is the district’s Maintenance and Structural Foreman, Greg Paterson. The class is made up of community members from Vancouver Island representing local business, government and school districts. Paterson has been involved in Leadership Vancouver Island since September 2017. In October, groups were chosen and given the responsibility of developing a community improvement project. Paterson along with Paul McGregor, Patrick Ryan, Tracy Stuart, Greg Matthews and Anita Sundberg, chose the name, Spread the Word, and began to collaborate about a worthy initiative. Many ideas were discussed and very soon Spread the Word decided on Little Libraries. The idea resonated with everyone, as it was intergenerationalandtherewasalsoaneedfrom the City of Nanaimo for a group to spearhead the project. Little Libraries are community-based bookcases, also known as mini libraries, where literacy can be shared within communities. They are intended to promote literacy, the love of reading, and create a sense of community and pride. The libraries are placed on a home owner’s property, fronting public space, accessible from the sidewalk. Books are donated from community partners, Vancouver Island Regional Graduates of the LVI program develop their unique capacity to lead themselves and others, develop meaningful connections, and understand the processes involved in collaborating with others to effect long-term, positive change.