The city of Baltimore is known for its rich historical past and contemporary poverty and racial strife. But one of the longstanding bright spots in the port city is the beloved community organization The Book Thing. This free book program has a simple mission—”to put unwanted books into the hands of those who want them.”

This amazing “free store” recycles discarded books and gives them away to anyone who visits their warehouse center. Unfortunately, earlier this week a fire broke out destroying thousands of donated books and causing considerable damage to the facility.

Book lovers can help The Book Thing rebound and get back to the business of giving away books by making a donation on their website or through the Go Fund Me campaign.