This week, Success Won’t Wait took the first step in an exciting new partnership with the historic Peoples Settlement Association (PSA). Since 1901, PSA has served as a vital support system for Wilmington’s East Side. Originally established to provide education, enrichment, and support for working-class families, PSA is widely known for its commitment to local seniors through its Senior Center gathering space. The organization also offers a critical Intake and Referral Program that connects Wilmington residents to essential resources, alongside its popular City Fare Meals on Wheels program.
In September 2026, PSA completed a major $12 million transformation. The project included an extensive renovation of its existing facility, a brand-new gymnasium, classrooms, program areas, daycare facilities, and offices.
And that is where Success Won’t Wait stepped in to lend a hand.
This week, Success Won’t Wait volunteers converged on the facility to design and stock library spaces worthy of the stunning new renovation. Volunteers added hundreds of books for adults across various genres, as well as children’s books for all age groups, creating a warm, inviting environment to relax and read. Residents are welcome to take books home to keep, as well as bring in their own favorites to share with neighbors.
The partnership was championed by New Castle County Council President Monique Williams-Johns (pictured below), a longtime Success Won’t Wait volunteer. “Peoples Settlement has been a cornerstone of the East Side for over a century, and this new library space is an exciting addition to its expanded offerings,” Williams-Johns says. “This project highlights Success Won’t Wait’s ongoing commitment to making a real difference in the lives of city residents by encouraging reading, improving literacy rates, and providing positive modeling for our youth.”
“After much hard work, it’s exciting to see this project come together,” adds Success Won’t Wait co-founder Vincenza Carrieri-Russo (shown above and below) “PSA’s dedication to the betterment of city residents’ lives is inspiring, and we are proud to be a part of this exciting new chapter!”
With the first installment now complete, Success Won’t Wait volunteers are already planning a second phase to bring even more books to the community.
About Success Won’t Wait
Founded in 2002, Success Won’t Wait is a not-for-profit literacy organization based in Wilmington, Delaware. To learn more about Success Won’t Wait’s literacy projects, how to donate used children’s books in Delaware, or volunteer your time, please click on the About Us tab above.
And, if your program, school or center needs assistance with books, please Contact Us to learn more.
Read now, because success won’t wait!