Taylor Hall’s lobby was the host of Zeta Phi Beta’s first “Sweet Service” book drive Monday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Only six books were collected to donate to Charleston schools.

“We came up with this idea because we wanted to do something that would benefit children in a positive way,” said Jaleesha Maury, president of Zeta Phi Beta and senior hospitality major.

The first book dropped in was titled, “Get Grown! And Keep Growing: The Self-Help Adult Maturity Handbook.”

Antoinette Williams, a junior family services major, said she received the book at an abstinence ball and felt it was more of a children’s book.

Maury said the sorority started planning the book drive at the beginning of October.

“Taylor Hall is easy access to capturing students’ attention and getting them to donate,” Maury said.

She said the sorority advertised the book drive with fliers posted around campus, as well as on Facebook.

“We will be donating all of the books to elementary schools in the Charleston area,” Maury said.

Ashley Bell, second vice president of the chapter and junior family services major, said she called Charleston High School to let them know that she will be bringing books to them.

“Next year we’re going to tell people about (the book drive) in August so when they go home for fall break, they can bring books back with them,” Bell said.

After an hour of the members hopefully waiting and entertaining themselves with YouTube videos, another five books were donated to the cause.

With only six books in their box, 44 short of their high hopes of receiving 50, the sisters left the table 15 minutes earlier than scheduled.

Darlene Bailey, a junior special education major and Zeta member, said the book drive was a part of Zeta Phi Beta’s “So Sweet Week” of the National Panhellenic Council.

Other events of the week include “Sweet Nothings,” a pancakes and poetry reading at the 7th Street Underground; “Sweet Heat,” a bonfire; and “Sweet Tooth,” an ice cream social.

Events are open to everyone.

Ashley Holstrom can be reached at 581-7942 or [email protected].