Every Child Deserves a Library That Works for Them
Access Books partners with public schools and communities to bring high-quality, culturally relevant books and welcoming library spaces to children who too often grow up without them.
We exist to promote equity, literacy and dignity — because access to books shapes how children see themselves — and what they imagine is possible.”
What We Do
Access Books helps schools build and sustain libraries that children actually want to visit and use.
We refurbish neglected school libraries, curate inclusive book collections, and create moments of joy around reading — from author visits to take-home book bundles — so that books are not just present, but loved.
Why This Work Exists
- There is no designated funding for school libraries in California.
- Many children cannot access public libraries outside of school.
- Without books, literacy — and equity — cannot exist.
Access Books exists to close that gap.
Success Story
“I’m Going to Come Here Every Day”
After Access Books partnered with a school to refurbish its library, an educator noticed a clear shift. A student who had rarely spent time in the school library walked in, looked around and saw a refurbished, intentionally beautiful space, and said they planned to come back every day.
It wasn’t framed as a requirement. It reflected a change in how the room was experienced.
When libraries are current, welcoming, and built with students in mind, children don’t need to be persuaded to use them. They return because the space works for them — and reading becomes part of their day by choice, not a mandate.
Connect through volunteerism: Our service events partner a school library in need with a sponsor group. Both groups work side-by-side to revitalize the library (photo by Axis Photography)
School Libraries Matter! – Children in low-income neighborhoods often don’t have access to books at home. Transportation to public libraries isn’t always safe or reliable.
California ranks last for school library funding: The low-income schools served by Access Books average 8 books per student (compare this to 28 books per student nationally). Photo credit: Axis Photography
Every child deserves a safe place to read – Access Books and our volunteers transform libraries with brand new books, comfortable furniture and colorful murals.
400,375
(and counting)
450+
(and counting)
total number of books given
2,400,621
(and counting)