Celebrating Community Library at Desyllas Stathmo (Train Station)

What happens when a forgotten train station becomes a place where stories, friendships, and hope are shared? As part of the this summer’s PhilotimoNOW Donor Journey to Greece (June 18 through July 3), 12 generous supporters had the privilege of meeting the founders of the Community Library at Desyllas Stathmo, a remarkable volunteer-led initiative, where dedicated residents transformed a former train station into a vibrant community gathering place.

During their visit, donors experienced firsthand how this welcoming space is fostering literacy, creativity, and meaningful connections among children, families, and lifelong learners. Inspired by the founders' passion and the volunteers' dedication, they celebrated the power of community-driven change and the lasting impact of investing in literacy.

PhilotimoNOW President & Executive Director Athena Michael (left) and Community Library at Desyllas Stathmo Founder Helen Kors (center) celebrated community leader Georgia Tzianos, who describes the meaning of philotimo.

PhilotimoNOW is honored to support this inspiring project through donations of books, a custom library sign, and funding for protective weatherproofing to help preserve the growing collection. Together with local bookstores, community leaders, and volunteers, we are helping create a place where stories are shared, friendships are formed, and a lifelong love of reading can flourish. Together, we are proving that even the smallest library can make an extraordinary difference in the life of a community.

Every library begins with a dream. Every book opens a new possibility. Every community deserves both.

Join us in bringing literacy to communities throughout Greece. Learn more about our Public Literacy Projects and discover how you can become involved:

To become learn more or become involved in this project, visit our Public Literary page.