Fairfax Library Foundation

Ready to Read Early Literacy OutreachReady to Read is an early literacy outreach program that aims to equip preschool-age children (ages 3-5) with essential reading skills. Experienced outreach representatives visit more than 150 childcare centers and Head Start classrooms to introduce the children there to the joys of reading through highly-engaging storytime sessions. Following these visits, children and their caregivers receive picture books at no cost, encouraging them to incorporate reading into their day-to-day routines. More than 24,000 picture books were distributed this year alone, with more than a quarter-million books for preschool children purchased by the Foundation since the program's inception in 2008. This program specifically designed for children and caregivers who may not have access to library branches. By focusing on fundamental skills and concepts crucial for kindergarten readiness, Ready to Read ensures that almost 24,000 Fairfax County children are now better prepared for their first day of school.