Statement in Support of the Open Books, Open Doors Act
EveryLibrary proudly supports the Open Books, Open Doors Act (S. 4028) and applauds efforts to expand access to books, literacy resources, and reading opportunities for children and families across the United States.
EveryLibrary proudly supports the Open Books, Open Doors Act (S. 4028) and applauds efforts to expand access to books, literacy resources, and reading opportunities for children and families across the United States.
At a time when literacy rates are declining, educational inequities are widening, and access to books is under attack in many communities, this legislation represents a critical investment in America’s future. Every child deserves the opportunity to become a confident reader regardless of their ZIP code, family income, or background.
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Books change lives, and literacy creates opportunity. Access to reading materials and library services improves educational outcomes, strengthens communities, supports workforce development, and empowers civic participation. Yet millions of children in the United States still live in “book deserts” where books and literacy support are difficult to access.
The Open Books, Open Doors Act, introduced by Sen. Andy Kim (NJ), recognizes that literacy is foundational to democracy, economic mobility, and lifelong learning. By supporting evidence-based literacy initiatives, expanding access to developmentally appropriate books, and strengthening family and community reading programs, this legislation helps ensure that more children have the tools they need to succeed.
Libraries, school librarians, educators, and literacy advocates across the country work every day to connect people with information, ideas, and opportunity. Federal investment in literacy and equitable access to books is essential to supporting that mission.
EveryLibrary urges Congress to pass the Open Books, Open Doors Act and calls on the public to support policies that protect and expand the freedom to read for all Americans.
Access to books should never be a privilege reserved for a few. Reading opens doors, and every child deserves the chance to walk through them.