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HIGHLAND — The legacy of an 8-year-old girl will extend beyond her elementary school and will now be visible at the community library.
"We didn't anticipate this many books, seeing what this outpouring of love and support has been," said Melissa Jolley, mom of Hannah.
Hannah Jolley died suddenly last summer from E. coli. A 12-year-old classmate launched a book drive in her honor.
"I knew that Hannah loved reading books, so I decided to do a book drive for her," said Christopher Boothe.
He put bins in the front of Shelley Elementary. He even orchestrated a Halloween trick or treat, trading books for candy. He gathered more than 2,600 books.
The total is a big step toward helping the tiny Highland City library become part of the coalition of Utah County Libraries, which will give the entire community more access to books. Each of these donated books will be stamped with Hannah's name in them.
"Every time that books are pulled off the shelf, they'll see her," said Carole Rice, of the Highland City Library.
KSL's Read Today program and Chopper 5 helped the school celebrate, amid a display of the donated books, pictures of Hannah and some of her prized belongings.
A group of Hannah's friends stood in front of the display, locking arms and struggling with emotions.
"I'm just missing Hannah," said third-grader Claire Hendershot through her tears. "I'm just glad that we're doing all this stuff for her."
Highland City's mayor also expressed appreciation for how the books would help city residents.
"We're appreciative with what we receive here in regards to the books," said Mayor Mark Thompson. "Even more so, when difficult times come to people and they find a positive to generate healing for people."
For Hannah's parents, the book drive and celebration ensured that a beloved part of their daughter's legacy lives on.
"That's one of the great memories that I have of her. It didn't matter if it was bedtime or three hours past bedtime, she had to read a book before bed," said Brian Jolley, Hannah's dad.
Melissa Jolley added, "It's just a little bit of a healing balm on our broken hearts."
You can donate to the Books for Hannah GoFundMe* here.
*KSL.com does not assure that the money deposited to the account will be applied for the benefit of the persons named as beneficiaries. If you are considering a deposit to the account, you should consult your own advisors and otherwise proceed at your own risk.
