Five years, 23,000 books, and 25 states. That’s the impact of Books of Hope, a non-profit organization started by senior special education and early childhood education major José Lopez.    “We’re dedicated to spreading the joy of reading by providing new and gently used books to children in hospitals, daycare centers, churches, and other community hubs that support our youth. Our mission is to ‘overcome the bad to create a better good,’” explained Lopez.     Lopez’s inspiration for the organization came from his own personal experiences in a hospital setting. Born prematurely, Lopez spent many months in the hospital. As he got older, his mom shared many stories of the dedicated nurses in the hospital who would read to him during their shifts. Later in life he witnessed his niece undergo surgery for a brain tumor and watched first-hand how small gifts like books can bring hope to children.     It should be no surprise when asked what his favorite book was as a child that Lopez quickly ...