Written by Brenda Nicholas

If you’re a starving artist or a starving anybody, or scraping by but not enough to add a column for charities to your budget, remember, there are people worse off than you. Yes, it’s true. In fact, Bolivia ranks as one of the poorest nations in the world, with an outrageous level of illiteracy among the population. Organizations such as BiblioWorks and Biblio.com have found ways for books to make a difference in people's lives, “and so can you!”

Biblio.com is an internet marketplace that specializes in used, rare, and out-of-print books and has a company philosophy that cares as much about fostering literacy as it does their bottom line. Last year, Biblio.com donated $15,000 to BiblioWorks, a non-profit organization feverishly striving to build libraries in some of Bolivia’s poorest communities. In addition to their efforts in South America, BiblioWorks actively donates to homeless shelters and prisons in Asheville, North Carolina, the organization’s hometown.

So what am I getting at in terms of your pocket? Nothing. But, if you have some books on your shelves that you could—I can’t believe I’m saying this—do without, consider spreading your literacy by donating them. If you’re like me and you have trouble parting with a book—even a less loved book—think of it this way: you’re making room for exciting new books!

Although fun to read, I’m not sure this would be the type of book to donate to Bolivia: I Am America (And So Can You!) , by Stephen Colbert