Raising a Reader

Raising A Reader (RAR) is an early literacy program dedicated to nurturing the development of young children, ages 3–4, in communities where poverty, language barriers, and limited access to formal education create obstacles to regular book sharing. By fostering meaningful family bonding through shared reading experiences, RAR helps lay the foundation for lifelong learning. Through partnerships with childcare centers and family child care homes, RAR provides children with a weekly Red Book Bag filled with high-quality, multicultural books throughout the school year. These books are meant to be shared at home, encouraging caregivers to build consistent reading routines with their children. To ensure families feel confident and supported, RAR includes easy-to-use guides and training resources that empower parents and caregivers—regardless of literacy level or language spoken—to actively engage in reading time. At the end of the program year, each child receives a Blue Library Bag to keep, symbolizing the transition to independent book borrowing and encouraging continued connection with their local library. RAR not only promotes critical early literacy and social-emotional skills but also strengthens the bonds between children and the caring adults in their lives, paving the way for school readiness and long-term success.