Fifty-one percent of educators reported that their classroom library/reading area would be considered a literacy rich environment across all areas of the checklist. Yet, the survey reveals that a full 30 percent of classroom libraries fall short of meeting the literacy rich guidelines and educators currently see no way to meet them.
Fifty-four percent of educators report having 10 or fewer books per child in their classroom libraries. On average, educators also estimate that less than half (40 percent) of their book selections represent diverse cultures and almost one-third of educators do not consider their book collection to have an adequate representation of diverse cultures (First Book Literacy Rich Environments Survey, 2022).
Our purpose is as bold as it is urgent
- To create systemic change
- To ensure equal access to quality education
- To empower every educator and all the children in need who they serve.
Our Impact
First Book believes that education is the best way out of poverty for children in need. We provide books and other resources to classrooms and programs serving children in need, from birth to age 18, in order to remove barriers to quality education for all kids.
Over its 29-year history, First Book has distributed more than 225 million books and educational resources, with a retail value of more than $2 billion.
Dedicated partners help us create even more opportunities for educators and kids in need.
Addressing the needs of the whole child to support their education, basic needs, and wellness.