Eight-Year-Old Marlboro Resident Starts ‘Diversity Library’

MARLBORO, NJ – From the trunk of her mother’s car, eight-year-old Madison Franklin carries heaps of donated books to her home in Marlboro. In an effort to bring a variety of representation to her peers, Madison began an at-home collection of books featuring diverse characters.

The idea initially stemmed from the ongoing nationwide protests in the aftermath of George Floyd’s death and subsequent conversations about racism in America. For Madison, the initiative was born from a drive to make positive change in her community, even during a global pandemic.

Books from the library are available for pickup and are expected to be returned at a later date. Arrangements can be made via the library Facebook page.

“After seeing all the protests going on, Madison was asking what she can do to make a difference,” Tara told Patch. “She also was having a hard time understanding because she said we are all people and doesn’t see a difference just because our skin is a different color.”

After doing some research, Madison and her mother Tara stumbled upon The Book Smart Project, an initiative that provides reading materials to classrooms in need. Since 2014, the project has donated books to hundreds of teachers across New Jersey, according to its website.

Between June 2 and June 6, the library obtained over 100 book donations from community members, The Book Smart Project and PJ Library. The young resident has also raised $250 dollars in monetary donations, which will be used to purchase additional books.

While a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the library is currently in the works, the family is awaiting the end of the school year and relaxed social distancing measures to set a date. In the meantime, Madison aims to grow her library and feature as many diverse stories and characters as she can, with the longterm goal of expanding the project into many communities.

“The response has been amazing and people are excited,” Madison told Patch. “I want kids to know we are all different and that it is okay.”

To donate to the diversity library, click here.