When Molly Lyon graduated college in 2021, she entered Nashville’s music industry. But over time, her focus shifted from playlists to page turns. She began writing a book, started a book club, and soon searched for a community that reflected her growing passion for literature. A quick Google search led her to the Women’s National Book Association (WNBA) Nashville chapter—a decision that felt, as she says, like a “no-brainer.”
From her very first meeting, Molly brought curiosity, warmth, and initiative. WNBA Nashville president Ami McConnell remembers being delighted by her energy. “Molly listened well, spoke up about a need, and then stepped up to lead,” Ami recalls.
A Foster Care Book Drive That Exceeded Expectations
In January, when asked if she had ideas for a service project, Molly suggested a book drive for local foster children. She merged WNBA’s mission to promote literacy with her own desire to serve. With support from the board, Molly designed the plan, managed details, and rallied members.
The goal was 100 brand-new books. The result? Over 140. Working with a local bookstore, Molly curated an age-appropriate list for children ages 1–18 and had it vetted by professionals serving foster youth. Every chapter member contributed, making the drive a true team effort.
Next: Refreshing a Library for Women in Recovery
Molly’s leadership continues this fall with a project for the Deborah K. Johnson Rehabilitation Center for women. At the request of the chaplain’s office, WNBA Nashville is gathering Bibles, devotionals, and inspirational books to refresh depleted shelves. Thanks to Nashville’s strong publishing presence, several boxes of new titles are already ready to go.
Confidence Through Community
For Molly, these projects have brought more than service—they’ve brought growth. “I never expected to be leading something so soon,” she shares. “But everyone picked up different pieces and asked how they could help. It’s been a great environment to learn I could do this.”
Getting Involved
WNBA Nashville is known for being welcoming and un-cliquish. Meetings are open to the public on the first Tuesday of every month at Carrabba’s in Green Hills. You can also meet members at the Southern Festival of Books on October 18–19, 2025, where the chapter hosts its popular Coffee with Authors event.
For Molly, the lesson is simple: “Everyone needs books.” And with WNBA Nashville, she’s proving just how powerful that truth can be.
Click here to listen to Molly’s episode of the Doing Good podcast.
Doing Good is a 501c3 nonprofit. www.doinggood.tv