United Way Installs Little Free Library Near Splash Pad
From the Nov 25, 2025 e-Edition
McKENZIE (November 19) — United Way of West Tennessee and the City of McKenzie have partnered to bring a new Little Free Library to the McKenzie community, expanding access to books for children and families.
Located on-site at the McKenzie Station Splash Pad Park, the Little Free Library is open to residents and community members of all ages — providing free, around-the-clock access to books. The initiative supports United Way’s ongoing efforts to promote early literacy and a lifelong love of reading across West Tennessee.
“Our goal is simple: we just want to put books in the hands of children and their families,” said Kaitlyn Mingle, director of early education initiatives at United Way of West Tennessee. “We are grateful for partnerships that allow us to do so, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to experience the joy of reading.”
The project was made possible through the generous donation of materials from Forcum Lannom Building Materials, Delta Siding and Carroll County Lumber, as well as the design and construction expertise of students and instructors at the Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) in Newbern.
The Little Free Library is stocked with a variety of titles for all reading levels, from board books for young readers to chapter books and family-friendly adult novels. Community members are encouraged to take a book and leave a book to help keep the library full and diverse.
This installation is part of United Way’s larger literacy initiatives, which includes programs such as “All Star Readers”and the “WOW Wagon,” both designed to encourage independent reading among young learners throughout West Tennessee.
Established in 1941, United Way of West Tennessee is a nonprofit organization that mobilizes communities to action so all can thrive. It serves 15 counties in West Tennessee with a focus on health, youth opportunity, financial stability and community resiliency.
For more information about United Way of West Tennessee’s early literacy efforts or to learn how you can donate books, visit www.uwwt.org
In the e-Edition
McKenzie Banner November 25, 2025
Nov 25, 2025 · Read the full issue →
Related Stories
Huntingdon Town Council to Consider Contract for Tennis/Pickleball Courts
HUNTINGDON — Huntingdon is set to significantly enhance its recreational offerings with the approval of a grant application for a new tennis and pickleball complex. In March, the town council authorized the submission of the 2026 Local Parks and Recreation Fund (LPRF) grant…
Aug 25, 2026
Long Heights Baptist Church Pays Off Mortgage
McKENZIE (August 24) — Long Heights Baptist Church in McKenzie has paid off its mortgage. The church celebrated the occasion with a note-burning ceremony Sunday morning, concluded with four baptisms.
Aug 24, 2026
Fun at the Sweet Tea Festival
McKENZIE (August 22) — The Sweet Tea Festival rocked downtown McKenzie over the weekend, with vendors and entertainers taking over Banner Row, Broadway Street and parts of Main Street and Cedar Street.
Aug 24, 2026
USPS Drafts Policy for Mail-in Ballots
WASHINGTON (August 2026) — A federal rule overhaul by the United States Postal Service could radically change how mail-in ballots are processed in federal elections, assuming it survives an ongoing firestorm in federal court.
Aug 24, 2026
