P. Caitlyn Day of New Castle, VA
One Person Can Build a Library: How I Mobilized My County

Craig County held the sad distinction of being the ONLY county in Virginia that did not have a public library. Caitlyn Day, then a high school senior, spearheaded a campaign she called Craig County Friends of the Library, Inc., a nonprofit community organization with the sole purpose of providing a library to her community. Caitlyn overcame countless bureaucratic obstacles to achieve what is today the Craig County Public Library. Her determination resulted in successful fundraisers; $125,000 in federal funds; identifying a building suitable for renovation; and ultimately, a fully stocked library. Caitlyn was one of only 10 students nationwide to receive the prestigious 2004 Yoshiyama Award for Exemplary Service to the Community, given annually by The Hitachi Foundation. Caitlyn Day is an amazing example of “Youth in Action – Making a Difference.” Come meet her at the National Youth Summit!