Russell Westbrook Opens New Reading Room In OKC

Russell Westbrook continues to encourage reading by opening his seventh Russell’s Reading Room.

On Tuesday, the Thunder star cut the ribbon at his fourth Reading Room in Oklahoma City and sent every kid at Edwards Elementary home with a book.

“Growing up in the inner city, I’m trying to find different elementary schools to help kids out,” Westbrook told Thunder writer Nick Gallo. “It’s something I take pride in doing and trying to find ways to help kids’ reading level go up.”

He added, "“I was one of them. I know you can just pick any book and go home and put it on the shelf. I wanted to make sure they picked a book that they like. If it’s a picture book, then let it be a picture book, at least they’re starting somewhere. Whatever it is they like to read, I want to show them that it’s okay to pick any book that you like and go home and read it.”

Last year, Westbrook opened three Reading Rooms in OKC and later opened three more in L.A., where he’s from.

Westbrook's generosity and numerous donations to the Oklahoma City community have not only showed dedication but also a genuine concern for the wellbeing of the people.

Serge Ibaka and Dion Waiters also spent the day spreading inspiration. Ibaka welcomed students in South Oklahoma City onto the Rolling Thunder Book Bus and Waiters helped them pick out books.

"I think this is a great experience. I've never been a part of something like this where it's a moving library,” Waiters told Gallo. “What OKC does for the community, they’re hands on with everything."