College Station, Texas, September 20, 2025
News Summary
Riley Yates and Caitlyn Lucas, two Girl Scouts from Troop 9018 in College Station, created a book nook at the Baylor Scott & White Medical Center. Their project, aimed at improving the emotional well-being of hospital patients, involved constructing a free library book house in the healing garden. The initiative fulfills the requirements for a Silver Award and provides literature for a diverse range of age groups, offering a much-needed distraction for those undergoing treatments.
College Station Girl Scouts Create Book Nook to Help Hospital Patients Feel More at Ease
College Station, Texas – Two local Girl Scouts, Riley Yates and Caitlyn Lucas, from Troop 9018, have recently completed a Silver Award project that significantly contributes to the emotional well-being of patients at the Baylor Scott & White Medical Center. Their initiative involved the creation of a free library book house, commonly referred to as a book nook, which is strategically located in the hospital’s healing garden. This project not only meets the requirements for one of the highest achievements for Girl Scouts in grades 6 through 8 but also aims to positively impact the hospital community.
The Silver Award requires participants to complete a 50-hour project that benefits others, and Yates and Lucas dedicated about a year to this endeavor. Their goal was to help brighten patients’ days, particularly those who are facing daunting treatments. They understand how stressful it can be to be in a hospital setting and believe that the book nook can serve as a much-needed distraction, allowing patients to immerse themselves in various stories and narratives.
The book nook was meticulously assembled and painted by the girls before being stocked with a diverse selection of literature appropriate for different age groups, ensuring that both children and adults can find something enjoyable to read. This thoughtful approach enhances the utility of the project, considering the varied demographics of hospital patients.
Linda Clark, the Chief Operating Officer at Baylor Scott & White, highlighted the significance of creating a peaceful and serene environment within the hospital. She acknowledged that many patients do not choose to be hospitalized, which makes the soothing ambiance of the healing garden essential for their mental health. The mere act of reading can transport patients to a more peaceful place, even if just for a few moments, thereby making their hospital experience a bit more bearable.
McCoy’s Building Supply generously donated all the materials necessary for constructing the book nook, showcasing community support for local initiatives that promote overall well-being. Yates and Lucas have expressed their commitment to maintaining the book nook as part of their ongoing contribution to the community, ensuring that it remains a valuable resource for those who access the healing garden.
Ultimately, the book nook is designed to deliver comfort and joy to patients of all ages, embodying a spirit of love and kindness during often challenging times. The Girl Scouts’ hope is that the presence of the book nook will bring smiles to the faces of patients spending time in the hospital.
Key Features of the Book Nook Project
- Location: Baylor Scott & White Medical Center’s healing garden.
- Beneficiaries: Hospital patients and their families.
- Literature Offered: A variety of books for all age groups, including children and adults.
- Materials: Donated by McCoy’s Building Supply.
- Involvement: Completed by two Girl Scouts over the course of a year.
FAQs
What is the purpose of the book nook created by the Girl Scouts?
The book nook was established to provide a peaceful place for hospital patients to access literature, helping to alleviate stress and brighten their days.
How long did the Girl Scouts work on this project?
Riley Yates and Caitlyn Lucas dedicated about a year to the project, fulfilling the requirements for the Silver Award.
Who supported the project financially?
McCoy’s Building Supply donated all the materials necessary for constructing the book nook.
What types of books are available in the nook?
The nook includes a variety of books suitable for different age groups, providing options for both children and adults.
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Additional Resources
- KBTX News – College Station Hospital Patients Get an Escape from Stress with Local Girl Scouts’ Book Nook
- Wikipedia: Girl Scouts
- NTX News
- Google Search: Girl Scouts Silver Award
- Fort Hood Sentinel – Central Texas Girl Scouts Recognizes Women of Distinction
- Google Scholar: Girl Scouts community projects
- KBTX News – College Station Girl Scouts Build Lending Library
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Girl Scouts
- KBTX News Video – Girl Scouts Silver Project Offers an Escape for Hospital Patients in College Station
- Google News: Girl Scouts projects

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