New partnership gives free kids books to local families to boost SC literacy
June 26, 2024
The Family Pages will gift a free bag of kids’ books to all Turning Pages’ adult learners who have kids at home
In a powerful move to foster reading at home, Turning Pages SC has introduced The Family Pages initiative. This innovative program, made possible by a new partnership with The Lisa Libraries in New York, will place free books into the hands of the kids and grandkids of learners enrolled in Turning Pages SC’s adult reading program here in the Midlands.
Imagine a home where books are rare and kids miss out on bedtime stories. This is the sad reality for many families across South Carolina and for nearly all of this nonprofit’s enrolled adults. Turning Pages SC aims to change this.
The Family Pages initiative begins when an adult joins Turning Pages SC’s free reading program. During enrollment, adult learners are asked about their family. On top of free tutoring and curriculum, those with kids or grandkids at home will also get a bag of easy-to-read books to encourage family bonding, from board books to leveled readers to early chapter books.
The Family Pages initiative by Turning Pages SC will give a free bag of kids’ books to all of their adult learners who have children at home.
“I’m so proud of our team for dreaming this up,” says Lisa Cole, Executive Director of Turning Pages SC. “What we know is that parents who struggle with text often have kids who struggle in school. These homes lack books too. Maybe they cost too much. Or they just don’t think about it. The Family Pages targets this issue by giving books directly to these families.”
The launch of The Family Pages is thanks to a new partnership with a New York-based nonprofit called The Lisa Libraries. Founded in 1990, they have given over 500,000 books to grassroots organizations across the United States. This ongoing partnership kicks off with an initial donation of nearly $2,500 worth of children’s books, marking the beginning of continuous support to Turning Pages SC.
Family literacy is a cornerstone for educational success. The Nation’s Report Card (NAEP) says that in South Carolina, only 34% of fourth graders read at grade level. This statistic underscores the importance of targeted literacy programs. Those who read well by the fourth grade are far more likely to continue their education and less likely to face incarceration or poverty.
By giving these parents not just the skills to read to their kids, but the actual books to read as well, Turning Pages SC aims to boost SC literacy and nurture a love of reading within families, paving the way for brighter futures for the next generation.
To enroll as a learner at Turning Pages SC, call 803-216-5663. Or visit turningpagessc.org/be-a-tutor to sign up as a volunteer reading tutor.
Two staff at The Lisa Libraries in New York prepare to ship out another large donation of books.
About Turning Pages
Founded in 1968, Turning Pages SC has trained over 1,750 tutors and helped over 6,000 adults read better. Adults who read below a 9th grade level receive over 50 hours of free, one-on-one tutoring each year, plus all books.
About The Lisa Libraries
Founded in 1990 by author Ann M. Martin and friends, they donate new children’s books to underserved communities. With over 500,000 books donated, they support daycares, after-school programs, and other grassroots organizations, to ensure every child can access the joy of reading. Learn more at The Lisa Libraries.
