Kids Read for Free

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Kids Read for Free ✩

Help inspire the next generation of readers

Why Kids Read for Free?

From my days in elementary school to dreaming of a bookstore to owning one, I have always had a love for books because of the teachers, principals, and librarians who encouraged me to find what books interested me.

I knew when I opened my own bookstore in my hometown, I had to continue the long legacy of Mrs. McGill, former principal of Fairmont Elementary, Mrs. Carver, former librarian of Northside Elementary, and many other teachers and librarians throughout my life.

In dreaming up how to continue the mission and get as many books in the hands of children in Johnson City, Kids Read for Free came to life. Inspired by Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library and Little Free Libraries, Kids Read for Free is a program designed to ensure every child who enters Johnson’s Literary Depot leaves with a book that will inspire them and open up the wonders of their imagination, just like Mrs. McGill and Mrs. Carver helped connect me with the books that made me, who I am today.

Donate to Kids Read for Free at Johnson’s Literary Depot

Your financial support is the backbone to creating a sustainable children’s literacy program. Please consider donating one time or regularly. We also accept in-person donations of books at our drop off locations.

Kids Read for Free FAQs

  • Kids Read for Free works through generous donations of children’s books and regular monetary donations. By this support, we encourage parents to bring in old children’s books to trade for used children books (One Book = One Book). As your child grows, so does their literary interests. If a parent and child comes into the store without books to trade, we ensure that they are always allowed to walk out with one children’s book of their choice.

  • The two biggest ways that make Kids Read for Free a sustainable program at Johnson’s Literary Depot is regular monetary donations specifically for the program and book donations of gently used children’s books (Ages 0-12).

  • In addition to free children’s books, Kids Read for Free also supports programming across Johnson City to encourage and support literacy initiatives for children. We are always looking for volunteers and ideas to help create this reality.