Boise State Students Gather Funds to Provide Books for Families in Need

Boise State University Students Promote Literacy Through ‘Books in Every Home’ Initiative

A dedicated group of students from Boise State University’s Children’s and Young Adult Literature course (ENGLIT 320) is gearing up for an impactful outreach program scheduled for next month. This initiative, known as “Books in Every Home,” aims to distribute new and gently used books to families in need at a local elementary school in Boise. The approach focuses on enhancing literacy and fostering a love of reading among young learners.

To date, the students have successfully raised more than half of their fundraising goal through a PonyUp campaign, which is set to conclude on October 24. The funds are intended to cover the costs of books and promotional materials that will enrich the educational experience of the children involved.

In November, the Boise State team will bring their efforts to a community school that caters to students in grades one through four. This particular public school is crucial in the Boise district as it not only serves the standard educational curriculum but also provides additional support services for families, thereby fostering a supportive environment for students who may be facing economic hardships. During their visit, the Boise State students will engage with the children by reading aloud from selected books, and they will present each child with carry bags filled with books for their personal libraries.

The “Books in Every Home” initiative is a noteworthy service-learning project that has been a staple in the Boise community for the past eight years. Originating from an English literature capstone class in 2017, the program reflects Boise State’s commitment to community service and promoting literacy. The program runs biannually during the fall semester and is open to all students who meet the upper-division standing requirement, emphasizing the university’s collaborative spirit.

Literacy is a fundamental building block for the success of young people, and initiatives like these highlight the essential role that community outreach can play in education. As Boise State continues to forge partnerships with local schools, the “Books in Every Home” project serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of access to resources and the promotion of reading at an early age.

For individuals interested in supporting this essential initiative or seeking further information, Audrey Borkowski can be reached at audrey.borkowski@u.boisestate.edu. This outreach is not only an investment in the future of the children involved but also reinforces the value of community engagement in education.