Texas Kids Belong in the Hands of Literacy.

Texas Nonprofit BookSpring Fights for Kids' Literacy

In a state where politicians are trying to ban books, Austin-based nonprofit BookSpring is taking a stand by getting books into the hands of Texas children. The organization, with a 50-year history rooted in the Reading Is Fundamental movement, is dedicated to ensuring that kids, especially those from low-income families, have access to books and promoting childhood literacy.

"We still have book deserts in Texas," said director Emily Ball Cicchini. "And Texas is dead last in the country when it comes to parents reading to their kids."

The need is clear, and BookSpring has stepped up its efforts by expanding its give-away programs and creating its own digital titles in English and Spanish. The organization is committed to building home libraries of 20 books per child, which studies show leads to greater educational success.

Cicchini, a longtime playwright and arts educator, took the helm of BookSpring in 2015, bringing her passion for social justice and arts education to the role. Under her leadership, BookSpring has:

• Maintained its building-block program, allowing children to choose up to three books to keep forever.
• Doubled its annual budget to $2 million.
• Increased its reach, serving cities across Texas, not just Austin.
• Distributed a total of 6 million print books, giving away 300,000 books to 144,000 kids each year.
• Commissioned Spanish-language titles to ensure diverse representation.
• Purchased and renovated a permanent home for its operations, solidifying its commitment to the community.

BookSpring's work is about more than just literacy; it's about empowering children and building a brighter future. As Cicchini reflects, "I do see it as a way of helping to save democracy — to save the future."