Helping Someone, A Beautiful Thing

If you live in Des Moines or the surrounding area and would like to help local homeless and at-risk individuals stay warm, you can donate at the Winter Clothing Drive. Here are the details: West Des Moines Human Services Winter apparel donation drive in West Des Moines 2026 Join us this month as we collect winter apparel to help local individuals and families stay warm. Donations of coats, hats, gloves, scarves, boots, snow pants, and other winter essentials make a real difference. Drop off donations: West Des Moines Human Services 139 6th Street Please ring the doorbell at the southeast donation entrance. A staff member or volunteer will assist you and provide a donation receipt. Donation Hours: • Mon–Thu: 8:30 AM–3 PM • Fri: 8:30 AM–12 PM • Tue Evenings: 4:30–6 PM Thank you for helping our neighbors stay warm this winter. And if you reside in another state, please donate at your local homeless shelter or soup kitchen. Your donation is greatly appreciated. – Randolph Randy Camp

Help Along The Way

Rich or poor, struggling or striving, I will always be grateful for each and every soul who had a hand in shaping me. In order to grow, every plant needs to be nurtured. Whether it was during our nature walks or working in the greenhouse, I learned a lot from our teacher Ms. Birdie West. Just like plants, we’re all reaching for the sky in one way or another. And certainly, no matter where we’re headed to, we are truly blessed whenever we get a little help along the way. Ever since I heard my Great Uncle Albright Brooks play the spoons when I was a little boy, I’ve been loving music. And when I first heard ‘The Little Engine That Could’ during story time, I instantly became fascinated with the power of words and stories. Without a doubt, these were the seeds of my dream. When I was coming up, certain songs I heard in church and on the radio had a profound effect on me. More than anything, I wanted my own radio. I was eight years old and had not a single penny in my pocket, but I was determined to get my first radio. One day, I was skimming through the sales inserts tucked in the Fredericksburg Free Lance Star. The Radio Shack insert advertised a transistor radio with a stylish brown leather case for $4.99. The Kmart flyer showcased a no-frills transistor radio for $2.99 (with the battery excluded). At that moment, I was on a mission. To make some money, our father taught me and my brothers how to pull copper wires from old, junkie cars and then burn the rubber off in a big, iron barrel. After the bare copper wires had cooled off, we would put them in a brown grocery bag we had gotten from Earl’s Supermarket. I’ll never ever forget that one particular week during my childhood because that was the week when God decided to send a few Angels my way. I had been searching and pulling wires for four days straight, and since I couldn’t afford to buy a brand new battery for the radio I plan to get, my cousin Jimmy James Carter gave me a spare 9-volt battery for free. Back then Jimmy James was our local ‘Mister Fix-It’ man. Jimmy James is a jack of all trades. Y’all should’ve seen my face when Jimmy showed me his sketch book years ago. I was amazed how well Jimmy drew a ’57 Chevy and a Ford Mustang with such perfection! But aside from his artwork, Jimmy James could fix anything. Matter ‘ fact, Jimmy was the first person who showed me what a PC circuit board looked like, as he opened up an eight-track tape player and repaired a broken wire. (Jimmy James is a kind soul who would do anything for anybody. I pray that God continue to watch over him and keep him in good health.) I was so grateful for the 9-volt battery from Jimmy James that day, and now it was time to go to the metal scrap yard to see how much money my copper wires are worth. One of my brothers put his bag of copper wires on the weighing scale and we all watched the needle quickly jump upward. My brother proudly smiled as Mr. Clark handed him three dollars and fifty cents. Next, it was my turn to place my bag on the sensitive scale. My father and Mr. Clark had known each other a long time. When we first arrived at the scrap yard, my father mentioned to Mr. Clark that I wanted to buy a new transistor radio at Kmart with the money I got from my copper. Honestly, still to this day, I remember being so anxious and nervous because it felt like my Earl’s brown grocery bag probably weighed more than the few burnt wires crumbled up at the bottom of the bag. When my bag rested on the scale, the needle barely moved. As I looked down, through the corner of my eye, I could see the tip of Mr. Clark’s dirty work boot slightly touching the outer edge of the scale and the needle suddenly jumped upward! As Mr. Clark handed me three dollars and twenty-five cents, a big sigh of relief swept across my face. It’s the fall of 2026 and things aren’t always easy for a lot of us, but I sincerely hope that each one of you have a few good people and a few Angels looking out for you. – Randolph Randy Camp Learn more at https://www.amazon.com/author/randolphcamp

Cole: Staying Positive and Sober

Cole: Staying Positive and Sober… Randie’s Free Library is grateful and fortunate to get book donations from people of all walks of life. The gentleman pictured above is Cole. A proud military veteran and a recovering alcoholic, Cole is two years sober and regularly attends A.A. meetings. In his ongoing recovery, Cole gets excited about motivating and inspiring others to stay clean. Along with his wife and daughter, Cole takes care of several horses. Cole says that working with the horses is a big help to his sobriety. On this sunny September morning, Cole happily donated the book ‘Daily Reflections’ to Randie’s Free Library. ‘Daily Reflections’ contains positive and uplifting messages to help those dealing with addictions, sobriety, and recovery. Cole’s journey is certainly inspiring. Cole now works as a professional heating and cooling technician in Des Moines. As a kid, Cole enjoyed reading ‘Where The Wild Things Are’. The Little Free Library (honoring Randie at Moore Memorial Park in Ames) and Randie’s Free Library greatly appreciates all book donations. – Randolph Randy Camp

Local Author Julia Dunt Visits Randie's Free Library

Randie’s Free Library was blessed yesterday with a visit from the true embodiment and spirit of giving back. Based in Des Moines, author Julia Dunt is constantly working on her own material, but graciously makes time to support and help up and coming writers within the various writers’ groups and workshops she’s involved with. During my conversation with Julia I was blown away with her sense of helping others and her community spirit. Not only is Julia an author, but she’s also a librarian. Julia’s love of books and reading started at a very young age. The ‘Goosebumps’ series were a favorite of Julia’s when she was little, but her interest now in stories vary throughout all genres. Julia says that she especially enjoys stories that are a little ‘outside the box’. While speaking with Julia I just love the way her face lights up when she’s talking about certain books or stories. This world would be a much better place if we had a few more giving Angels like Julia. It’s always a thrill when someone from my daughter Randie’s alma mater visits the Free Library. Julia’s husband Jamie is an alumni of Iowa State University. With a background in aeronautical engineering and being an avid outdoorsman, it was no surprise when Jamie mentioned that when he was growing up he was always curious about how things worked and shared memories of reading ‘Where The Wild Things Are’ as a kid. And, in the spirit of giving, while visiting yesterday, Julia also generously donated several books to Randie’s Free Library. If you would like to learn more about author Julia Dunt’s books or her other literary projects go to https://www.juliadunt.com/books . – Randolph Randy Camp

Building Character

We all go through changes. I’m not the same person after some of my past military experiences. It’s been six years since my daughter Randie’s passing, and no doubt, this has impacted my life greatly. I miss our long, heart-to-heart talks about anything and everything. Noticeably, my writings have certainly changed over the past few years, and I would like to share with you some of my storytelling lessons. Hands down, one of the most important aspects of storytelling is character development. Were there any changes in your main character’s life? If so, how did these changes influenced your character’s outlook? In real life, none of us are the same as we were a few years ago. Your characters are no different. In telling your story be sure to show your character’s growth. And equally essential, make sure none of your characters sound the same. We each have our unique way of expressing ourselves. No two characters in your story should ever sound the same. As writers, we run the risk of confusing the reader if we don’t distinguish one character from the next. I wish you continued success in whatever you’re pursuing. Don’t ever give up and keep climbing that ladder! – Randolph Randy Camp More at https://www.amazon.com/author/randolphcamp

It's Okay To Dream

Don’t be afraid to dream, big or small. Distance yourself from negativity and surround yourself with positive people. There will be setbacks and disappointments. Positive-minded, true friends will help you through rough patches and rejections. Whenever possible, hone your craft, practice, rehearse, and study the path you’re about to take until you’re fairly comfortable. And most importantly, believe in yourself and learn to turn rejections into your greatest motivation. I remember getting my first rejection letter years ago. Sure, it hurt. But, I kept writing. Don’t let anyone stop you from dreaming. Dreams give us hope, and hope keeps us going. – Randolph Randy Camp (Photo: Me making a point to an independent producer about one of the main characters in ‘Wet Matches’) Learn more at https://www.amazon.com/author/randolphcamp

Books, the Ticket to Anywhere

Books, the Ticket to Anywhere… Although we may have been economically poor way back then, we were also rich in so many other ways. During the school summer break, many of my classmates would go on fun road trips and exciting family vacations to places such as Yellowstone National Park and Disney World. Thanks to the Central Rappahannock Regional Mobile Library, which serviced Fredericksburg, rural Spotsylvania County and other surrounding counties, I also got to travel to exciting places during my summer break, thanks of course, to the books I would read from the bookmobile. I love how books can take you anywhere, regardless of your income. – Randolph Randy Camp (book nook photo thanks to bookmania) Learn more at https://www.amazon.com/author/randolphcamp

Discovering Your Why

Discovering Your Why… We are all here for a reason. There’s something special about you. There’s an old adage that says, ‘There are two important dates in your life, the day you were born and the day you discover why you were born’. Ironically, what may seem like a setback sometimes actually could turn out to be a pivotal moment in your life and a blessing in disguise. When I was a young teen I couldn’t wait to become a man already. After reading about the Australian Aboriginal people’s walkabout rite of passage, I wanted to go on my own walkabout. So, I did. This was my trip into adulthood. I was naïve but my eyes were wide open. To make a long story short, the officer from the Philadelphia Police Department had the most puzzled look on his face when I tried to explain to him that I was on my walkabout from Virginia and not a runaway. Needless to say, he didn’t waste any time in telling me to get into the backseat of his patrol car and drove me straight to the Philadelphia Youth Study Center. Inside of this tall, monstrous building were things hidden from the general public. Due to overcrowding there weren’t enough beds, so a lot of kids had to sleep on the cold floor, on gym mats or thin wool blankets. The damaged walls were covered with graffiti, and most padded chairs were ripped with wobbly legs. The moment I arrived I began to feel bad for all the kids staying there. Not only was the building in terrible shape, but on top of that, the place was severely understaffed. One day, a staff member informed me that my case manager was working on getting me a Greyhound Bus ticket and arranging my trip back to Virginia. And then she asked me, “So, whatcha gonna do after you leave here and get back home?” Within her question I found my purpose. I knew from that moment on I would try my best to lend my voice to the underserved, either through my writings or through youth advocacy and mentorship. None of us are perfect. I’ve made some bad decisions in my life, but one decision I’m definitely proud of is serving those who feel misunderstood or thrown away. Once I got back to Virginia, I remember having a conversation with Ms. Birdie West (R.I.P.) She taught horticulture and she was one of my favorite teachers at Spotsylvania High. We were talking about seeds, and Ms. West said that once a seed is put into the ground all it wants to do is reach for the sun. Regardless of your circumstances, I hope that each one of you will continue reaching for the sun. Many of you have already found your why, and you’re blessing us every day with the work you do. If you’re still searching for your why, don’t worry, one day it’ll find you. Never forget that you are uniquely special and don’t ever let anyone convince you otherwise. By the way, the old Philadelphia Youth Study Center (which stood for decades) was eventually demolished, and the new Philadelphia Juvenile Justice Services Center was built around fifteen years ago. – Randolph Randy Camp (Learn more at https://www.amazon.com/author/randolphcamp)

Heart of Gold

Heart of Gold… It’s not easy to experience heartaches and trauma and still come out of it with a loving, golden heart. Although Randie went through a lot of rough patches, she persevered and wouldn’t hesitate to reach out and help others, if she could. During her darkest days, Randie found comfort in reading certain stories. Relatable characters helped her get through some very traumatic events in her own life. We all have our favorite poems and songs to lift our spirit when we’re feeling down. Randie believed strongly in the healthy benefits of bibliotherapy. For most of her adult life, Randie devoted her time to promoting literacy and bibliotherapy. Once again, I want to thank all of you for keeping Randie’s dream alive with your book donations to Randie’s Free Library (and to the Little Free Library at Moore Memorial Park). Two days ago, a package from Dublin, Ireland arrived for Randie’s Free Library. Inside was a nice note from Enya, along with four books. In the brief note, Enya shared how she was moved and inspired by Randie’s story that she’s seriously considering creating a free book exchange in her neighborhood, which is on the outskirts of Dublin. By the way, in this short note, Enya also shared an interesting Irish saying, ‘If God sends you down a stony path, may he give you strong shoes.’ Thanks to people like Enya and people like all of you, my grief and pain of missing Randie is eased a bit. After going through such terrible periods, Randie had every right to be angry. But, instead of being mad at the world, Randie chose love, and chose to help others. It’s comforting to know that Randie’s heart of gold is still being felt around the world. – Randolph Randy Camp Note: Randie’s Free Library is located on East Kirkwood Avenue in Des Moines, Iowa and the Raising Readers of Story County Little Free Library (which is dedicated in Randie’s honor) is located at Moore Memorial Park in Ames, Iowa.

Testify: Where Ya From

No matter where you’re at or what you’ve been through you can still reach your destiny. As a kid growing up in rural Spotsylvania County, Virginia, I would sometimes get really sad because the world around me didn’t always match the world in the books I would read and one day hope to write myself. But, at the little country church on the then-dirt and gravel road, I remember listening to the uplifting gospel songs of ‘Ain’t Gonna Study War No More’, ‘This Little Light of Mine’, and listening to the encouraging sermons from Elder John ‘Sonny Boy’ Carter and Elder William Camp (my father). Whether they were preaching behind the pulpit of the Highway Christian Church down on Camptown Road or speaking with you outside in the yard, their words were always positive and encouraging. I have fond memories of my time at this little church. Although no one had a lot of financial wealth, I remember when people would stand up to testify in church, they were so grateful for what they did have. I’m truly grateful for these two men because they, along with my wonderful school teachers, played a big role in keeping me motivated. “A tree without roots will not grow” is a quote from Marcus Garvey, and I certainly will never forget where I came from or those who have had a hand in shaping me. – Randolph Randy Camp Learn more at https://www.amazon.com/author/randolphcamp (Photos: Highway Christian Church, Elder John ‘Sonny Boy’ Carter, Elder William H. Camp, Sr)

Author's Note: Let Your Characters Speak

Author's Note: When I started writing ’29 Dimes’ I almost quit because I had let my own inhibitions get in the way. Some of the characters I created in ’29 Dimes’ had a lot to say and they definitely weren’t too shy to make some noise. But the problem I ran into was that I let myself, as the writer, get in the way of the story. In the end, I got rid of my own inhibitions and let the characters speak freely so that they could tell their own story. - Randolph Randy Camp

Your Voice Matters

Yes, it’s uncomfortable to rock the boat. But when they have pushed you up against the wall, it feels good sometimes to make a little noise. This Saturday, March 28, 2026, there will be people from all walks of life gathering and attending numerous ‘No Kings’ protest rallies all across America. Too often, we’re made to feel that our little voice won’t matter, but please remember that a choir singing in unison can change the world. We can’t let anyone silence us. Years ago, I learned that a righteous person can not be silenced. Today, the spirit of Nelson Mandela and Martin Luther King, Jr. are still very much alive and glowing in millions of us, regardless of race or skin color. Right now, a lot of our personal freedoms are at stake. Trying to take the right to vote from certain citizens and removing certain books from our libraries are just a few of the freedoms and liberties that are in jeopardy. We shouldn’t be rewriting history to hide the harsh periods in America. We must tell the children the truth. To whitewash history and brainwash our kids makes America weaker as a nation. A foundation of lies will eventually crumble. There comes a time when we need to stand and make some noise. This is that time. Don’t be afraid. When I started writing ’29 Dimes’ I almost quit because I had let my own inhibitions get in the way. Some of the characters I created in ’29 Dimes’ had a lot to say and they definitely weren’t too shy to make some noise. But the problem I ran into was that I let myself, as the writer, get in the way of the story. In the end, I got rid of my own inhibitions and let the characters speak freely so that they could tell their own story. I understand when someone doesn’t want to shake things up or possibly be seen at a big protest event. If, for whatever reasons, your inhibitions are standing in the way, then maybe, as an alternative, you could simply find a banned book at a local bookstore then place it in your neighborhood book exchange or free little library in your area. Remember that your act of courage, big or small, still matters a lot. In spite of several representatives and government officials trying to make some of us feel ‘less than’ and make us feel as if we don’t belong here, I will always be a proud military veteran who believes in true democracy and loves this country. In whatever capacity that you’re most comfortable with, I hope that many of you will make your voices heard and take part in the ‘No Kings’ event this coming Saturday. You can learn more about the ‘No Kings’ events in your area at the following link (Indivisible.org) indivisible.org - Randolph Randy Camp

Remembering Clayton: "I'm Alright"

Remembering Clayton: “I’m Alright” Staying positive as possible and trying to focus on the bright side of things is a quality we all strive to have. Brother Clayton possessed this quality and he showed it well. What I admired most about Clayton is this: While coping with a medical condition throughout the years, Clayton’s personality would shine brighter than his ailment. Several years ago, Clayton attended a book talk event at John J. Wright Educational and Cultural Center in Spotsylvania, Virginia. After the event I thanked Clayton for coming and then I asked him how he was doing, and he simply replied, “I’m alright.” A couple weeks ago, I found out that Brother Clayton Ellis is now in Heaven. I’ll never forget his special quality, something I’m constantly working on. – Randolph Randy Camp (Photo: December 2017, Book Talk Event at John J. Wright Educational and Cultural Center. Clayton Ellis is seated beside his sister Sherry Ann in the back row. Clayton has on his brown leather coat and wearing a black baseball cap.)

Acts of Kindness

Yes, it’s true, today’s headlines are definitely disheartening. The news makes it hard to believe and trust anyone anymore. While I was in the Air Force I experienced things that made me sick, but every day I fight to regain my trust in people. Every now and then others show their kindness and that helps me in my struggle to regain this trust. No matter how cruel and mean the world gets though, ultimately I do believe that there are more kind and goodhearted people out there than bad ones. Case and point, on this sunny January morning, an anonymous act of kindness was shown at RANDIE’S FREE LIBRARY. May God Bless each and every one of you who continually maintains a kind heart regardless of the heartless things you see and read about in the news. – Randolph Randy Camp