Molly Riportella, a librarian in Westwood, Massachusetts, is using her skills to help victims of domestic abuse. Inspired by her own experiences, she crafts "Book-it-2-Freedom Kits" - hidden compartments in discarded books containing burner phones with essential resources for those in need.

Lizzy McGovern, Westwood library director, supports Riportella's initiative and highlights the substantial aid given by the library and the entire town.

Helping Victims of Abuse

Riportella discreetly distributes these kits to women in abusive relationships, providing a way to seek help without their partners detecting communication attempts. The hidden phones contain information on safety planning, pro bono legal action, and how to obtain restraining orders.

Riportella ensures the hidden phones remain inconspicuous, putting them in silent mode and removing any identifiable library markings. The initiative not only provides practical assistance but also serves as a lifeline for those enduring abuse, allowing them to connect with domestic abuse shelters and essential services.

Riportella established BiblioUnderground, a grassroots library and social justice movement, to extend her reach. The initiative aims to assist individuals facing abusive situations, offering them a discreet means to access vital resources. Riportella invested $1,200 of her personal funds to finance the initiative.

READ ALSO: 5 Self-Help Books Recommended and Read by Therapists

Riportella's idea came forth two years ago with her encounter with a woman facing abuse by her partner and monitoring of her phone activities. The success of her initiative has prompted her to seek more organized efforts and expand her reach, connecting with abused women who reach out through the BiblioUnderground website.

When asked about the risk of the abuser finding the book, Riportella acknowledged the potential danger but emphasized that the risk is worth taking. Jen Bolton, Community Education & Prevention Director of DOVE (Domestic Violence Ended), recommended consulting with a domestic violence advocate to strategize the safest places to keep a phone like the hidden ones Riportella provides.

Addressing a Widespread Issue

Despite efforts to address such issues, domestic violence is still a significant concern. Statistics from NCADV showed that one in four women in the US faces severe intimate partner physical violence. Riportella's initiative seeks to address the problem of women who often end up in such dire situations, especially when abusers use technology as a means to exercise control and intimidate.

By using her personal experience of leaving an abusive relationship, Riportella highlighted the significance of overcoming the stigma associated with domestic violence. Her long-term goal involves collaborating with shelters and organizations to deliver phone kits to needy people directly.

Despite initial hesitations due to ongoing stalking by her abuser, Riportella decided to share her idea. She highlighted the significance of facing fear and doing the right thing despite difficulty or anxiety. Her dedication to saving others from the struggles she once faced became a part of her healing process.

Riportella's initiative, although still in its early stages, aims to empower more women to share their stories and seek help. She envisions a more organized and widespread effort to provide support, understanding that resources alone are not enough; overcoming the mental challenges of a controlling relationship is equally crucial.

RELATED ARTICLE: Acid Attack Survivor Leads Awareness Campaign in Fashion Book