A local bank plans to collect books to benefit READ Jackson County and Plaza Latina from March 11 to 16.

Books may be dropped off during normal banking hours at First Financial Bank, 1130 E. Tipton St., Seymour.

Reading is the foundation for future learning, and the ability to read can transform lives to empower children and communities to reach their full potential, according to a news release from the bank, which has more than 150 banking locations in Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky and Ohio.