Some Words: Where to get free or affordable kids books

Yesterday, a reference question landed in my inbox. One of our faculty members is working with an educational program this summer and was looking for free children's books to hand out to families in attendance.

Every kid should have access to books at home. Studies have shown that simply having books within reach improves literacy rates. (Here's a recent open access article about just that!) When kids have access to books, something shifts. This book is mine. These words are mine. This story is mine.

I am all about getting more books into kids' hands. Here are some places you — or your organization — could reach out to:

• Dolly Parton's Imagination Library: If your city participates, any family can sign up. We did this and our kiddo received one book a month from birth until she turned five. Some titles are available in bilingual Spanish-English editions.
• Little Free Libraries: Many little free libraries (particularly those near schools) have a few kids or young adult books.
• Parent List-Servs and Groups: Most cities have a few of these. Just ask for books. Most parents are happy to pass along titles their family has outgrown, especially if you're willing to pick them up.
• Library Sales: Most book donations don't end up on library shelves — they go toward sales that raise funds for the library. Children's books are always well-represented, and grab bags of titles are often marked way down.
• Goodwill or other resale stores: You can grab a lot of titles for a little price.
• Garage Sales: When people are downsizing, books of all types come out. You may find a single title or entire libraries.
• Curb Alerts: Neighborhood groups and list-servs will often post curb alerts for free items. Kids' books show up more than you'd think.
• No Buy or Swap Groups: Platforms like the Buy Nothing Project let people post items they're giving away for free.
• First Book: One of my favorite nonprofits. They provide new books and resources to educators and organizations serving kids in need. 

If you have other resources or ideas, please share!

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