Thanks to Partnership Between NPL, Operation Warm, and Jones Paideia Magnet Elementary School

Winter’s chill will be a little less harsh for many Nashville families thanks to their public library and its community partners.

On Monday, December 7, nearly 400 brand new coats and more than 400 books were given to Nashville families whose children attend Jones Paideia Elementary Magnet School.

The coats and books were provided by Operation Warm, a non-profit organization that provides winter coats at no charge to families in need. The staff at Nashville Public Library (NPL) delivered the coats and books to Jones Paideia staff, who distributed them to families.

“Nashville Public Library is excited about the opportunity to provide new coats and books again this year. Thanks to Operation Warm and the Jones Paideia staff for collaborating with us,” said Terri Luke, NPL’s Director of Branch Services.

Operation Warm’s “A Warm Welcome to the Library” program provides coats and books, free of charge, for public libraries to distribute to their communities. Unlike those found at many clothing drives, the coats are all brand new and quality checked by the non-profit’s staff.

This event marked NPL’s second collaboration with Operation Warm and its first with Jones Paideia. Last year, NPL distributed 150 coats and books to families in the community.

“Nashville Public Library’s extremely generous donation of 400 winter coats made it possible for every Jones Paideia student to receive their very own brand new coat! It is a privilege for us at Jones Paideia to be a conduit for such a blessing for our students!” said Myra Taylor, Principal at Jones Paideia. “Everyone associated with this project is extremely grateful, including our parents, students, and staff members. We all feel encouraged during this incredible time in our world to see that there are organizations and people who still love and care for others in word and deed.  It is an amazing time to be givers and receivers of great gifts, favor, and love. Thank you, NPL!”