who we are

County Kids Read is a non-profit that gives free books to children and families throughout Prince Edward County, with a focus on low-income households. Through our approach of bringing local children and families to books, and books to local children and families, we are hoping to unlock a brighter future for all County kids.

Our Purpose: To secure every County kid’s right to enjoy the benefits of their very own books.

WHY WE EXIST

At County Kids Read, we give free books to children throughout Prince Edward County. Which begs the important question: why?

Because reading is a human right; because reading has physical, mental, and social health benefits; and because there’s nothing quite so wonderful as seeing a child fall in love with a good story. 

Yet today in our community, a growing number of children from low-income households are growing up in a home with few to no books. Research shows there is a link between literacy acquisition and poverty, and that having books in the home improves children’s social, economic, and educational outcomes. Reading opens doors to a happy, healthy, and balanced life - and community.

So that’s why we give free books to County kids - because a child's love of having their very own books is a human right worth securing. 

93% of children say their favourite books are the ones they pick themselves.