WANTED: 1 MILLION BOOKS

A book search is on for 1 million books.

The Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, headquartered at Lebanon, Tenn., will kick off a 30-day, Neighborhood Book Drive, starting Sunday.

The books, to benefit children's literacy programs throughout more than 400 communities where Cracker Barrel restaurants are located, will be presented to local schools, libraries or nonprofit organizations, said Floyd Harrison, manger of the local facility, at 3261 William.

The project is being conducted in partnership with country music star Faith Hill and her Faith Hill Family Literacy Project, the National Health Alliance VHA Inc. and America's Promise -- the Alliance for Youth, an organization led by retired Gen. Colin Powell. The organization is dedicated to strengthening the character and competence for the nation's youth.

"We're pleased to take part in the national book drive," said Harrison. "Our goal at this store is about 3,000 books."

Cracker Barrel will ask its guests and employees to donate new, or slightly used, youth-oriented books -- kindergarten through eighth grade -- during August.

"We have a special display set up here," said Harrison. Books can be deposited in the America's Promise little red wagon just inside the restaurant.

Books collected will be picked up weekly for distribution.

Powell said he is pleased Cracker Barrel is dedicating a major part of its 30th anniversary to the book collection.

"It's a wonderful example of how a company can mobilize its employees and customers to get involved and make a difference in the lives of youngsters," he said.