Joyce was such a great friend to many of us. She touched so many people in her life through her loving care, her teaching, her advocacy, and her wit. She was great at lifting people up and encouraging them to use their gifts. The world has just not been as bright without her.

I've been hurting a lot since the day she passed. Healing comes in different ways, and for me it has been in making sure her memory lives on in whatever way possible.

We all know how much Joyce loved to read; and if you also read a lot, she loved to talk about reading. She supported Anthony's Plot a lot when it came to working with the kids in the neighborhood with reading through our summer Freedom School, Día de los Niños/Día de los Libros (Children's Day/Book Day), and getting good books in our Free Little Library (even those pesky "banned" books!).

I decided that there could be no better way to honor Joyce than to continue to spread her love of reading to the city through a couple of Little Free Libraries. As of right now, locations are being discussed, but I'm hoping to put them in 2 of the places that Joyce loved dearly.

These libraries aren't cheap, though. And I want to make sure that they're done in such a way that they'll last for years and years to come by using good, treated wood and finishes. Estimates are coming up to be over $2,000 for 2 of them. One is going to be a little more fancier than the other, and may even include a bench and planter!

Money raised through this campaign will go towards the materials, plaques & charter registrations, and pre-made pieces to put the two libraries in place. Any extra money over the goal will go towards either extras to make the libraries nicer, or for items needed for the Winter Overflow Shelter at Augsburg Lutheran Church where Joyce served as volunteer, paid monitor, and passionate advocate for 9 years. We may even order some books to start the libraries off as well.

So won't you please join me in this adventure? I'm so excited to work with everyone! I'll make updates and make sure everyone is aware of the openings of the libraries.

God bless you all!