I don't generally publish one of those “help us” or “give us money” types of post on my blog. But this one really caught my interest and I wanted to bring people's attention to RWAus's Flood Appeal:

RWA Flooded Communities Book Appeal

We've all seen the devastation the recent Queensland floods have wrought and have wondered how we can help. We know that for many affected families, books will not be high on their priorities list for some time to come.

But…
We also know how valuable books can be in providing time out when reality gets tough.

So…
With the aid of some wonderful volunteers, we've put together a Romance Writers of Australia Flooded Communities Book Appeal.

What we need?
FICTION BOOKS! Romance books, children's books, young adult books, genre books, whatever — either new or in sparkling condition.

Please send them to:
RWA Flooded Communities Book Appeal
PO Box 1717
Noosaville Post Office
Noosaville BC
Queensland 4566

When to send them?
Now! And any time over the next few months. The books will be boxed and delivered to the appropriate libraries/schools/neighbourhood centres/community centres in batches as soon as the communities are ready to receive them. We'll be liaising with councils, libraries and schools to ensure this is done appropriately. Feel free to pop a note inside, or if you're an author, sign it.

Questions:

If you have a question about donations, email Jess Anastasi.

If you work in a library / council / community centre / school in a flood affected area, email Rachel Bailey.

Cash Donations
If you would prefer to make a cash donation, please donate to the QLD Premier’s Flood Relief Appeal or for the animals, donate to RSPCA Queensland.

Q&A

Q. I’m overseas and would like to donate but the cost of sending books is very expensive?

If you are an author, send one copy of a book. This will keep your individual costs down, but will also contribute to our book appeal.

Alternatively, consider buying a book from The Book Depository, which offers free postage to Australia. The book can be sent directly to the appeal.

Cash donations can be made to the charities listed above.

Q. I’m in Australia and have many books to donate. What is the cheapest postage option?

Australia Post offers a 3kg satchel anywhere in Australia for approximately $10. Please ensure the books are wrapped in bubble wrap to miminise damage in transit.

Band together with friends, your family, your writing group and send books together to minimise postage costs.

Q. I’m in Brisbane. Can the books be dropped off?

We have a drop-off point in Carindale available. Please contact Jess Anastasia for further information.

If any other RWA member in Qld can offer a drop off point, please contact Rachel Bailey.

The appeal page on the RWAus blog will be updated weekly with news on the appeal.

So if you have any books you don't to keep, please consider donating them to RWAus.