Every idea starts with a problem. Ours was simple: illiteracy.
Being able to read and write is the foundation of knowledge accumulation, further skill development, and critical thinking. Unfortunately for many of the 16 million United States children living in poverty, this skill of literacy will never be attained. And access to books is a key contributor.
We believe reading is a birthright. And we are on a mission to end illiteracy with the power of books. Access to books is one of the greatest predictors of success. Families who live at or below the federal poverty level cannot afford them. And illiteracy is often linked to poverty. It’s cyclical. Family members who can’t read tend to impact young people who also struggle with reading. Even more, it’s difficult for a young person to identify as a reader in these circumstances.
We created I Love Books to break this cycle by ensuring all young people have access to books. We want them to identify as readers.
Here’s what we do and why:
BOOKISH MERCH
Our apparel and accessories promote a love for books and reading. Young people mimic adults, and our products create affirmation opportunities whether you are shopping with an I Love Books bag or taking a walk in one of our hoodies. When young people know adults read, they are more likely to become readers as well.
#booksgiving
With every purchase, you help us to donate books to young people who need them most. We partner directly with schools and nonprofits through our interactive giveaways known as #booksgiving. This allows us to sustainably provide new books and support community leaders without a single donation.
b.a.m.
We know that if young people have books, they still need to identify as readers to become lifelong learners. So we celebrate books through art and music (BOOKS + ART + MUSIC = BAM). We believe it’s our job to meet young people where they are – if they do not love books now, we plan to change that.
Books are powerful. Every purchase you make puts books in the hands of young people who need their power to change the world.
We hope you join our movement to end illiteracy, BOOK x BOOK.
@chiefbookman - Founder