At First Book, we often say that $25 can provide five brand-new books for children in need. It’s a statement that surprises many – especially when children’s books can cost as much as $18.99 each. So how is this possible? Every Book is New and Chosen With Care The First Book... Read more
A small, Title I elementary school located in Columbia, Maryland, stands as an environment where every child feels supported, seen, and excited to learn. As one of the smallest schools in Howard County, almost all 300 of its students live within walking distance. At the heart of this community is... Read more
In Valdosta, Georgia, where 100% of schools qualify for Title I funding, educators are finding creative ways to inspire students. Ra’Shuna, a dedicated 5th grade teacher and First Book member, is bringing engaging books into her classroom, starting discussions, and fostering a love for reading. Challenges in the Community With... Read more
We’re thrilled to introduce the 17 incredible youth challenge winners from this year’s Time for Change Youth Challenge, a national initiative from First Book and Ashoka that empowers K–12 students to become changemakers in their schools and communities. Across the country, young people stepped up with big ideas—and even bigger... Read more
At First Book, we’re proud to shine a light on those making a difference in their communities through reading and education. One of these champions is Theresa, founder of Grandma’s Love, a nonprofit dedicated to fighting childhood hunger and promoting a love for reading in New York City. Addressing Hunger... Read more
Over the last several years, book bans and restrictions have dramatically increased across the United States. Organizations like the American Library Association (ALA) and PEN America have been tracking these trends, but there has been little data on how these efforts to limit access to books are affecting educators and... Read more
First Book and Ashoka are excited to welcome educators back to the Time for Change initiative by kicking off the school year with a BIG announcement. Time for Change is a multi-year initiative in partnership with Ashoka and Audemars Piguet. We’re working together to equip educators and young people with resources to incorporate... Read more
Joey Mathis is a First Book Marketing and Communication intern. She is currently an undergrad student at Hollins University in Roanoke, Virginia. According to a survey conducted by First Book in 2021, nearly 60 percent of educators spent between $100 and $500 out-of-pocket on classroom supplies. With classroom budgets often... Read more
Teachers prepare each and every one of us for the road ahead in life — impacting our lives in a way that goes beyond the classroom. Our friend, Author Marissa Meyer — the brains behind The Lunar Chronicles series, has a message for each and every educator that have motivated... Read more
The truth is, we all have unconscious bias. But what is “unconscious bias”? This is what happens when we allow our own attitudes, feelings, stereotypes, or beliefs impact our judgment or understanding of other people. It’s called “unconscious” because it is not something we do deliberately; rather, it is an involuntary... Read more