First Book Blog

Stories of impact, the latest research, best practices, curated book lists, and more.

image of Kyle Zimmer, CEO of First Book, speaking in front of a glass podium.

“I Remember Meeting John Lewis Like It Was This Morning.”

Posted in: Author Voices

This blog post was written by guest blogger, Kyle Zimmer, president, CEO, and co-founder of First Book. Dear First Book Community: Over the course of my life, I have been fortunate enough to meet talented, famous people from time to time.  Best-selling authors, musicians, and, as a long-time Washingtonian, many... Read more

Hartford Foundation and First Book Award $1 Million in Grants to Six Connecticut School Districts for Computers and Home Internet Access, Funded by The LEGO Group and The LEGO Foundation

Posted in: Our Partners, Press Room

The initiative enables remote learning for nearly 3,000 students in need July 9, 2020 (WASHINGTON) – Six school districts in Connecticut will begin the school year with new Chromebooks and home Internet connectivity, enabling distance learning for the first time for nearly 3,000 students from underserved communities. The $1 million... Read more

selection of books on the table

More Free Books for Teachers

As an educator or program leader serving children in need who needs books and supplies, you use the options at your disposal to maximize your students’ learning experience. You’ve just recently signed up with First Book… now what?  When funding is available through sponsors and partners, we’ll send an email to you to let... Read more

Mo-Love for Mo Willems

From heartwarming stories featuring lively, unforgettable characters to virtual events connecting young creators to their wide imagination, all through May, we’ve celebrated everything Author Mo Willems. Educators and parents recognize the genius in Mo’s storytelling — how he introduces social concepts and provides solutions to various situations, all while entertaining... Read more

graphic with text that says: "Double Your Impact to Help Give a Million Books! Help give a million books to kids in low-income communities this holiday season and beyond. The book you send may be the only holiday gift a child gets, and helping a child love books makes a lasting difference. Give by December 31 to double your impact through a Matching Challenge Fund from our generous friends at Pizza Hut — twice as many books with a single gift!" There is a red donation button in the lower right corner. On the left side of the graphic is an image of a young girl holding up a book and smiling.