Classic Red Book Bag Program

The Only Program That Combines Evidence-Based Books and Family Engagement — Aligned to the Science of Reading

You get 100+ curated, diverse titles per child, family engagement resources, and a proven model trusted by 300 partners in 34 states.

How it Works

  • Weekly Book Rotation
    Each week, children bring home a Red Book Bag filled with award-winning, carefully selected books, encouraging regular reading time with caregivers.
  • Family Engagement
    Parents and caregivers receive simple, easy-to-use guidance on making reading time engaging and beneficial.
  • Library Connections
    Families are introduced to local libraries to help establish a long-term habit of book borrowing and reading together.
  • Long-Term Impact
    The Classic Red Book Bag materials are designed for repeated use, with an initial investment lasting up to seven years.
Supporting Families
  • Encourages a love of reading by creating meaningful reading moments.
  • Provides simple strategies for families to support their child’s learning through books.
  • Connects families with libraries to reinforce ongoing reading routines.
Supporting Educators
  • Provides training and support to help educators integrate the program into early learning environments.
  • Includes ready-to-use materials that fit into existing literacy initiatives.

Start a Program Today!

With over 3,000 implementation sites nationwide, Raising a Reader reaches nearly 150,000 children and their families every year through almost 300 community partners.

Contact us today to bring the joy of reading to families in your community and help children build a strong foundation for future success.

HOW TO START A PROGRAM