Research abstract

Getting Book Rich

Libraries are a critical component to a well educated society. Not every community has access to a large collection of books. Read on to find out just how important your local library is. By School Library Journal

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Effective childhood learning regimes require books with the urgency that flowers need water on a brutally hot day. But while certain flowers have adapted to persistent low-water conditions (think cactus), examples of effective education in low- or no-book environments are rare. These “book deserts” are the target of a new initiative being undertaken by a coalition of education-focused institutions.

Some problems are so persistent and complex that only a whole new approach can break open the potential for a solution.

Building on a recent study conducted by Susan Neuman and Naomi Moland, the Book-Rich Environment Initiative is being rolled out countrywide. Working with local libraries, and with significant support from major book publishers, the effort is directed toward increasing the per-child number of books available in “book desert” communities across the nation.

Key takeaways

  1. Not everyone can obtain books to improve literacy.
  2. Book-Rich Environment Initiative is finding partners to supply schools and students with new reading materials.
  3. There should be a community commitment to spreading literacy where it lacks.

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Laura Lurns · Learning Success expert Writes about the learning brain for parents who want plain answers. Every article is grounded in current neuroscience and classroom practice.