Research shows that exposing children to a diverse array of characters in literature can affirm their own cultural identities and foster positive insights about those who are different from them.

But the vast majority of children’s books contain only white characters – and 61% of low-income families have no books at all in their homes.

Open Books | Open Minds seeks to address both sides of this problem. It’s simple:

• Parents who can afford to buy books for their early-grade children purchase a set of either 3 or 5 books featuring diverse characters and cultures for use in their home libraries.

• For every purchase Open Books provides the same 3 or 5 books to kids in the North Lawndale community.

Frequently Asked Questions

To purchase books, click on your child’s grade level.

First Grade | Second Grade | Third Grade | Fourth Grade | Fifth Grade