On a rainy Wednesday, we were fortunate to have the opportunity to work with Repair the World, Wepac, and W. C. Longstreth School.

WePAC’s mission is to promote childhood literacy by engaging volunteers in Philadelphia public schools through re-opening and staffing libraries and academic mentoring. In their vision, every Philadelphia student will be empowered with the literacy skills vital to the success of the child and the prosperity of the community.

Our service-learning coordinator Rel from Repair the World, gave us various tasks in the library like sorting books, alphabetizing, computer work, and shelving.

After the library work, Rel led us in a reflective time to learn about literacy and libraries in Philadelphia and the lack of librarians in the city. We learned about the necessity of volunteers for programs like Wepac, and how they impact the lives of children in the area. And, we will all admit, while we were working, it was really hard not to read the books!

It was indeed a rainy day, but the group decided to explore Reading Terminal Market and the Art Museum in Center City Philly.

Another great day. Tomorrow, Friday, is our last one together and it will be packed. See you then!