Mission

Open Books' mission is to transform lives through reading, writing, and the unlimited power of books.

What We Do

Open Books' vision is that all children have what they need to become life-long readers. Founded in 2006, Open Books engages children and families to identify and provide them with the resources they need to make reading a part of their everyday lives. This includes free access to books in homes and schools that lack books and in- and out-of-school-time programs that provide reading, writing, and family supports related to literacy. In multiple Chicago neighborhoods, Open Books operates retail bookstores, the revenue of which supports the organization's program and operations. The nearly-1.5-million books donated to Open Books each year make up its stores' inventories and drive book grants to children, schools, families, and other partner organizations.