Turn Family Engagement Into Higher Circulation + Stronger Community Impact
Proven, easy-to-run family reading programs used nationwide for over 25 years.
Why Libraries Choose Raising a Reader
- Increases Family Visits and Engagement
Gives families a clear, welcoming reason to visit, borrow, and return—building consistent library use over time. - Boosts Circulation By Building Routines
Weekly book rotations and home reading routines naturally increase checkouts across early childhood and elementary collections. - Expands Outreach Through Partners
Reaches families who may not regularly participate in traditional library programming. - Supports Summer Reading Programs
Keeps families reading during the months that matter most, complementing summer reading initiatives and outreach efforts.
How it Works in Libraries
Libraries can implement Raising a Reader in ways that fit their space, staffing, and community needs:
- Curated bilingual books/collections
- Bilingual, family-friendly materials
- Staff training and implementation support
- Optional summer add-on
Funding Raising a Reader in Libraries
Libraries across the country support Raising a Reader using a range of federal, state, and local funding sources, including:
- Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) funding, such as:
- Grants to States programs under the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA)
- Native American Library Services: Enhancement Grants
- State library-administered funds and competitive grants
- Local government appropriations
- Friends of the Library groups and library foundations
- Philanthropy and community partnerships
Want to learn more ?
Get program options, pricing, and a simple implementation plan for your library.
*Note on funding variability:
Federal and state library funding availability can vary by state and year. For example, some states—including California—have experienced recent changes in federal library funding allocations administered through the California State Library. Our team works with libraries to identify current, viable funding options based on local conditions.