The Need

Millions of children from low-income areas don’t have the tools they need to learn. With your help, we can change this.
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Understanding the Need
In low-income communities, books and educational resources are scarce. Kids start school behind their more affluent peers and never catch up.

A record number of kids are growing up in need.

  • More than half of U.S. public school students live in low-income households.

Public education and programs are deeply underfunded.

  • 23 states are spending less on education than before the 2008 recession.

Without adequate resources, children cannot learn.

  • 79% of fourth graders from low-income households do not read proficiently.

The impact of this cycle is staggering.

  • Poor educational outcomes are tied to future poverty, unemployment, illness, and crime.

Sources: National Center for Education Statistics, Center on Budget & Policy Priorities, Annie E. Casey Kids Count, World Literacy Foundation.

Our Solution
Through our award-winning distribution channels, the First Book Marketplace and the First Book National Book Bank, we deliver resources — chosen based on educator feedback — to where they are needed most.
First Book provides resources where there were none before
82% of the First Book network report that without First Book their children would have few or no new books.
First Book increases children's interest in reading
In a poll of the First Book network, 87% report children’s increased interest in reading after receiving books from First Book.
First Book improves teacher impact and performance
In a poll of the First Book network, 79% say First Book helps them be the best educator they can be.
First Book helps close the achievement gap
In a poll of the First Book network, 88% report resources from First Book helps close the achievement gap for the kids they serve.

The Impact

First Book transforms the lives of children in need by improving access to quality education. From books to backpacks, to technology and toothpaste, First Book delivers critical tools for learning and life.

170 million
books and resources distributed to date.
5 million
children reached annually.
375,000
registered members, with 1,000 new educators joining weekly.
1 out of every 4
classrooms and programs serving kids in need reached.
Meet Our Members 2016 Impact Report
First Book Insights

The Number One Barrier to Learning: Basic Needs

Children who discover the joy of reading not only do better in school, but also have a life full of adventure ahead. We are grateful to First Book for helping us foster the love of reading in so many children in need.

— Marty, H.O.P.E (Help Our People Eat) | Forsyth County, North Carolina