Business Details
34 Years
experience
Empowering Children Through Free Books
Children's Book Project was founded in 1992 with a clear mission: to provide free books to children in need across San Francisco and 35 additional California counties. Our organization addresses systemic inequities in book access by collecting new and like-new donations, which we sort and distribute through our Book Bank. Teachers and community workers select high-quality books for children who might otherwise lack personal collections. We operate multiple programs including Read Aloud, Second Reading, and Teen Ambassador initiatives to foster literacy. With over 3.4 million books distributed since inception, we combine decades of experience with research-backed approaches to close opportunity gaps.Our team includes dedicated staff and volunteers who ensure every book donation creates measurable impact. As a women-led 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we maintain strict financial transparency while expanding our reach through community partnerships. Our work demonstrates that consistent book access directly improves literacy outcomes and lifelong learning potential.
Services
Book Bank Program
Read Aloud Program
Second Reading Program
Storytime Program
Teen Ambassador Program
Details
- Year established: 1992
Highlights and features
- We have distributed over 3.4 million books since 1992
- Our Book Bank offers carefully sorted, age-appropriate selections
- We operate multiple research-backed literacy programs
- We maintain partnerships with 35+ California counties
- Our volunteer-driven model maximizes book distribution efficiency
What people say
Captivated the students
Loved the experience
Beautiful and encouraging
Positive impact on readers
Engaging author events
Services
Book Bank Program
Our Book Bank collects and distributes new and like-new children's books to underserved communities. Teachers and community workers select materials tailored to their students' needs. This program ensures equitable access to quality reading materials for children who might otherwise lack personal book collections.
Read Aloud Program
The Read Aloud Program promotes early literacy through structured reading sessions. Certified facilitators engage children with age-appropriate books, demonstrating proper reading techniques and fostering a love for literature. This initiative directly supports cognitive and emotional development through interactive storytelling.
Second Reading Program
Our Second Reading Program extends book lifecycles by redistributing gently used materials. Collected books undergo quality checks before being made available to schools and community organizations. This sustainable approach ensures valuable resources reach children who need them most while promoting environmental responsibility.
Storytime Program
The Storytime Program features author-led reading sessions that inspire young readers. Notable authors like Mac Barnett engage students with interactive readings and Q&A sessions. Participants receive signed copies of featured books, creating memorable literary experiences that encourage lifelong reading habits.
Teen Ambassador Program
This program develops youth leadership through book advocacy. Selected teens receive training in literacy promotion and community engagement. Ambassadors organize local book drives, mentor younger readers, and raise awareness about educational equity, creating a multiplier effect in their communities.
People
Risa Schwartz
President
Risa Schwartz leads our board with extensive nonprofit governance experience. She has championed educational equity initiatives for over 15 years, guiding strategic planning and community partnerships that expand our book distribution network across California.
Alessandra Argello-Recinos
Book Bank Manager
Alessandra oversees daily Book Bank operations with 8+ years of service. Her expertise in inventory management and community outreach ensures efficient book processing and distribution to schools and social service organizations throughout the Bay Area.
Maureen McCarthy
Program Director
Maureen directs our literacy programs with a focus on measurable impact. She has developed evidence-based approaches for book selection and distribution that align with educational research on childhood literacy development and learning outcomes.
Questions
How can I donate books to Childrens Book Project?
Donate books through our Book Bank by scheduling an appointment online. We accept new and gently used children's books for all reading levels.
What areas do you serve?
We serve San Francisco and 35+ counties across California, including Alameda, Los Angeles, Sacramento, and San Diego counties.
How do schools request books?
Educators and social workers can schedule Book Bank visits to select free books for their students and clients during our operating hours.
Are there volunteer opportunities?
Yes! Volunteers help sort books, assist with events, and support literacy programs. Sign up through our website's volunteer portal.
Can authors participate in events?
We collaborate with authors for Storytime events. Contact us through our website to propose an event partnership.
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