The Books for Kids mission is to promote literacy among all children with special emphasis on disadvantaged children and youth by donating books, creating children's libraries in underserved locations, and participating in reading initiatives with community based organizations.

Description:
Availability of books is a key factor for high achievement in reading and literacy. Illiteracy, on the other hand, is linked to low self esteem, unemployment and crime. By making good books part of the everyday lives of more children, Books for Kids not only seeks to increase their chances for success at school but also in life.

We achieve these goals through three major means: first, Books for Kids installs brand-new, kid-friendly libraries in agencies and organizations that serve underprivileged children. Second, through Book Grants, Books for Kids donates new books to groups to expand existing libraries. Third, Books for Kids sponsors the "Kids Helping Kids" initiative, which seeks to involve children in community service activities centered around literacy.

For each of these programs, the Books for Kids Foundation relies upon the time and support of volunteers. Any assistance, especially from professionals in related fields, is welcome.

History:
In 1986, the Books for Kids Foundation was created by a few New Yorkers who recognized that some children must surmount enormous disadvantages when entering school because they have not had adequate access to books or been encouraged to read.

What began as an informal project to collect and distribute 1,000 books to needy children for the holidays quickly took on larger dimensions when we placed 2,000 books in the first year and 9,000 in the next. Books donated by individuals began to be supplemented by donations from publishers, and the numbers of books distributed grew to millions.

In the mid-1990s, Books for Kids began creating libraries in child care centers, after school programs, health care facilities and detention centers where books were scarce. At first, libraries were stocked with donated books. Today the 50+ Books for Kids libraries in the tri-state area and beyond are filled with book collections customized to the ages, interests and backgrounds of the children served.

Contact person: Nell O'Donnell, Program Coordinator, (212) 252-9168, (email)
Office fax number: (212) 594-2511

Address:

225 West 35th Street, 3rd Floor New York, NY 10001 (See a map)

Directions:

We are located 35th Street, between 7th Avenue and 8th Avenue, one half block from Macy's.   Nearest Metro/Subway Stop: ACE,   Walk distance (in minutes): 2