There was a “Jersey Proud” milestone for an operation that was dedicated to childhood literacy in the state.

News 12 has previously reported about Book Smiles in Pennsauken. It is a one-man show redirecting discarded books into the hands of kids.

Book Smiles just donated its 1 millionth book of 2024. Shawnte Cheatum, of Jersey City, picked it up. She's a media specialist at a middle school in Jersey City.

Larry Abrams has been the force behind Book Smiles since he started it seven years ago. This is the first time he's handed out a million books in one year.

He says he is optimistic he can do 1.25 million in 2025.