More than 500 students at Old North Academy began winter break with new additions to their home libraries after each selected at least six free books from thousands of donated titles. The distribution was provided by Our Kids Read and supported by community volunteers.
Unlike traditional book giveaways, students chose books that reflect their interests and identities. Dr. Candice Carter-Oliver, CEO of Confluence Academies, said that choice helps drive excitement. When children see characters who look like them and stories that reflect their culture, she said, they are more likely to read for enjoyment and continue the habit outside school.
Keyon Watkins, founder and executive director of Black Men Read, said many North St. Louis families lack consistent access to reading materials at home.
He described the region as a “book desert,” where households often have few books or resources that connect to children’s lives and languages. “Literacy is a family engagement; it’s important to start at home,” Watkins said.
Educators say the timing of the book giveaway matters. Research shows many students lose reading ground during school breaks, especially younger readers who are still mastering foundational skills. Teachers often spend the first weeks after winter break reteaching missed content and routines.
State and local data highlight continuing literacy challenges. According to the National Assessment of Educational Progress, about 26 to 27% of Missouri fourth- and eighth-grade students read at or above proficiency, while local numbers are lower. In St. Louis Public Schools, about 19% of students are considered proficient readers.
Carter-Oliver said sending students home with books can help preserve skills learned during the semester and keep families engaged in reading while school is out.
Volunteers from Black Men Read and Ready Readers helped organize the event.