We're Bringing Diverse Books to Little Free Libraries Across the Country – And We Need Your Help!
Little Free Library is a trusted, award-winning nonprofit organization at the center of a global literacy movement.
Our new Read in Color initiative distributes thousands of diverse books that provide perspectives on racism and social justice; amplify BIPOC, LGBTQ, and other marginalized voices; and incorporate experiences from all identities for all readers.
Can you help us share 20,000 diverse books through the Little Free Library network?
Read in Color has four key components:
- Little Free Library installations. We are establishing new Little Free Library book-sharing boxes filled with culturally relevant books in high-need communities, working in tandem with local partners.
- Free diverse books. Little Free Library stewards in participating cities can apply to receive shipments of diverse books at no cost, purchased from BIPOC-owned independent bookstores whenever possible.
- Read in Color pledge. Everyone can sign a pledge indicating their commitment to read and share diverse books. Participants have the option to showcase their commitment on our Pledge Wall and have access to special Read in Color resources. (More than 3,400 people have signed so far!)
- Recommended reading lists. Our Diverse Books Advisory Group provides a list of multicultural books for children, adolescents, and adults representing Black, Indigenous, Latinx, Asian American, Muslim, LGBTQ, and other communities.
How You Can Help
Did you know that in children's literature, only 10% of characters are Black, 7% are Asian/Pacific Islander, 5% are Latinx, and a mere 1% are Native American? We want to increase representation and empower all readers. With your gift, we can bring diverse books and little libraries to communities where they will make a difference.
Your donation will have an immediate impact:
- $25 provides Read in Color launch materials
- $50 provides a diverse book package
- $100 provides a post for library installation
- $300 provides a Little Free Library kit, ready to be assembled
- $500 provides a complete Read in Color package: a Little Free Library, post, and collection of diverse books!
“When children read inclusive books, seeds are planted in their minds, hearts, and souls—seeds of awareness, self-esteem, and connection. If enough such seeds are sown, they will blossom into a society that is far more just and equitable than we've ever experienced. Reading in Color is not just fancy for our children's entertainment. It is necessary for our collective survival.”
– Tameka Fryer Brown, author of Brown Baby Lullaby and Read in Color advisor