Since its inception nearly 12 years ago, the B.I.G. Project has definitely lived up to its name. The project amasses large quantities of used books destined for schools and communities in developing nations, as well as fellow servicemen and women stationed abroad.

According to B.I.G. Project’s founder, Political Science Department Professor Steve Frantzich, the group is only a few more shipments away from its ‘‘2.8 millionth book.” Ran through the local Annapolis Rotary-Parole and Rotary District 7620, the club uses volunteers to assemble troves of information every second and fourth Saturday of the month.

Working out of a warehouse in nearby Lothian, Md., the B.I.G. Project offers a great opportunity for the Naval Acad-emy’s Midshipman Action Group (MAG) to reach out to those in need across the globe. Through the organization of MAG, numerous Companies sponsored B.I.G. Project SMTs last semester, and Extra-Curricular Activities also provided support.

B.I.G. Project shipments have gone to Africa, Eastern Europe, and Southeast Asia, along with native American reservations, mission-sponsored academic centers, and towns recovering from natural disasters. B.I.G. Project’s underlying goal is to spread educational opportunities in an effort to create sustainable stable economic and political conditions in impoverished states and regions. In addition, the group sends shipments to the Peace Corps and U.S. military members serving overseas to increase morale.

Midshipmen have many opportunities to support this effort. At the end of each term, Midshipmen can donate their textbooks to the B.I.G. Project in boxes located near the bookstore, library, and post office. The Project also needs volunteers to move donated books from the Academy to the warehouse. Companies can coordinate a B.I.G. Project SMT through their company training sergeants, and ECAs can also get involved.

For more information on how to support the B.I.G. Project, contact Project leader Midn. 3⁄C Victor Hurlbert, or Professor Steve Frantzich.