BUCKHANNON – With nearly one in five adults in Upshur County reading below a fifth-grade level, the Literacy Volunteers of Upshur County are gearing up for their Annual Spring Book Sale to support their mission of spreading literacy throughout the community.
The Spring Book Sale will be held at Tennerton United Methodist Church — 126 Tallmansville Road — on Friday, April 26, from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday, April 27, from 8 a.m. to noon.
“Our mission at LVUC is to spread literacy throughout Upshur County,” said Jennnifer Higham, LVUC Director. “We offer free and confidential one-on-one tutoring in reading, basic math, computer skills and other life skills.”
Higham expressed concern over Upshur County’s 19% illiteracy rate, stating, “It’s abysmal. That means almost one in five is reading below a fifth-grade level.”
She emphasized the importance of also addressing literacy and math skills deficits in the area.
LVUC hosts various fundraising events throughout the year to support its mission.
“We do things like raffles, yard sales and book sales,” Higham explained.
Speaking about the Spring Book Sale, Higham highlighted the diverse selection of books available, including adult fiction and non-fiction, as well as children’s books.
“We have all genres — mysteries, thrillers, large print, history, politics, presidential politics, art, music, autobiographies, biographies and more,” she said. “We price our books to be affordable for everyone.”
LVUC accepts book donations year-round, ensuring a constantly evolving inventory for their sales.
“We are grateful for the community’s support,” Higham said. “All proceeds from the Spring Book Sale will benefit LVUC and its students.”
Higham also mentioned LVUC’s involvement in community events, such as Festival Fridays, where they host free children’s book giveaways throughout the summer.
Reflecting on LVUC’s impact, Higham said, “Since 1985, we’ve taught 500 people to learn to read, and that is really amazing.”
LVUC welcomes everyone to attend the sale, with ample parking available at the Tennerton United Methodist Church. For those interested in donating books, LVUC accepts donations Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., at 88 W. Main St. in Buckhannon.
For more information about LVUC and its programs, or to apply to be a tutor or student, visit facebook.com/LiteracyVolunteersOfUpshurCounty.
