Local Nonprofit Donates 10 Million Books to CPS Students
Bernie’s Book Bank Supports At-Home Libraries
Bernie’s Book Bank supports at-home libraries, giving children age-appropriate books they want to read. Over the past 12 years, the nonprofit has donated 10 million books to Chicago students.
Milestone Donation to Armstrong Elementary
CHICAGO – A milestone donation was delivered to Armstrong Elementary on Chicago’s Northwest Side Monday morning.
Chicago Public Schools CEO Pedro Martinez shared memories of reading with the first-graders – the main characters in an exciting chapter of reading.
Bernie’s Book Bank has donated books to Armstrong Elementary students to take home for 12 years. Each student received eight books to read, trade or share. They started reading right away.
History of Bernie’s Book Bank
Founder Brian Floriani started Bernie’s Book Bank in his garage in 2009.
“We started in 2009. The worst time in history to start a nonprofit. I thought it was the best time. In a garage with a vision to build an American institution,” Floriani said. “This is a solvable problem, the one that we solve at Bernie’s Book Bank. And we’re going to solve it and we’re going to do it in an effective, efficient, scalable and sustainable way.”
Importance of Reading
Educators at CPS said reading is the most important subject at school, but it has to be done at home, too.
“There’s nothing quite like the excitement of a child coming home with a new book, eager to read and share what they’ve learned. Bernie’s Book Bank has truly enhanced the Armstrong community and we’re deeply grateful for your ongoing support and partnership,” Armstrong Principal Otis Dunson said.
The kids are encouraged to read these books multiple times before passing them along to others.
Conclusion
Bernie’s Book Bank has made a significant impact on the lives of Chicago Public Schools students, providing them with access to age-appropriate books and encouraging a love of reading. With 10 million books donated, the nonprofit continues to build a strong foundation for literacy and education in the city.
FAQs
Q: What is Bernie’s Book Bank?
A: Bernie’s Book Bank is a local nonprofit organization that donates books to Chicago Public Schools students to support at-home libraries.
Q: How many books has Bernie’s Book Bank donated?
A: Over the past 12 years, Bernie’s Book Bank has donated 10 million books to Chicago Public Schools students.
Q: Why is reading important?
A: Reading is the most important subject at school, and it has to be done at home, too. Reading is essential for literacy and education, and it helps students develop a love of reading and learning.
