Launched by Santa Fe’s Teen Leadership class, the Reach Out and Read program is a book drive donation that aims to provide parents with the chance to incorporate reading and encourage family time with their children early in life.

The importance of reading at an early age is crucial for brain development, as the brain almost fully develops by the age of five. When parents read to their children, it not only strengthens the bond between parent and child but also builds critical language and vocabulary skills that prepare children for academic success.

“Reach Out and Read is important to families experiencing adverse outcomes due to poverty,” Teen Leadership members said.

Book donations will be accepted from April 22 to May 6. Additionally, donation boxes will be located in the library, office and Room 12.

Donating damaged or vandalized books is strongly discouraged, but books for all ages are accepted.

“Newly bought books are appreciated,” Teen Leadership members said. 

Members of the National Honor Society (NHS) also receive benefits from donating books. Members can obtain one hour of community service for every five books donated, with a maximum of three hours.

“If you need community service hours, donating five books would get you one hour and you can get three of those, which is pretty good for an NHS student,” Teen Leadership member Nicole Casada said.

Teen Leadership will also award the Advisory class that donates the most books with a donut party. 

The overall goal for the book drive is to receive 500 books donated by the end of May 6. 

Another program similar to this is Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, which also aims to support reading for young children. 

If you want to begin donating today, either donate books to the Reach Out and Read program or visit Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library site.