Reading is a SUPERPOWER. 

It allows you to step into the mind of another human and share in their experience. It can transport from the barren deserts of Arrakis to the Great Hall of Hogwarts. It even unlocks the collective intelligence of all of humankind. Reading is such a critical super power that every hero in the Marvel Cinematic Universe knows how to read (even Hulk). 

Sadly there are thousands of kids throughout Chicago who lack this awesome, and extremely necessary, superpower. These kids are at a huge disadvantage, and end up much more likely to remain unemployed, become unhealthy, and have no real chance at social mobility. Thankfully there are amazing organizations like Open Books, who are on the front lines of childhood illiteracy. Every year Open Books works tireless to teach 5,000 children how to read, and helps expand their literary horizons by donating more than 150,000 books. 

I’m raising money for Open Books to bring the amazing superpower of reading to more children, so that they can have more control of their future, and become a massive Harry Potter fan like me.

Testimonials about Reading: 

“Books are the quietest and most constant of friends; they are the most accessible and wisest of counselors, and the most patient of teachers.” - Charles William Eliot 

"I love cozying up on a rainy day with a good book" - Everyone 

"I always assumed Hollywood was great at doing book adaptations" - 46 Year Old who just learned how to read 

Team Bookin' It

Open Books' annual fundraiser Team Bookin' It (TBI), brings together runners, virtual runners, and donors in support of literacy. TBI is part of the Humana Rock 'n' Roll Chicago Half Marathon, July 21-22. The race includes a 5K on Saturday, July 21 and a 10K and Half Marathon on Sunday, July 22. The race takes place at Grant Park. Proceeds of TBI 2018 benefit Open Books' literacy and book granting programs that reach thousands of children each year.

Our Mission

Open Books transforms lives through reading, writing, and the GIVING power of used books. Open Books brings the joy of literacy to 5,000 children, and donates over 150,000 books to children, families, and under-resourced communities in Chicagoland this year. To learn more, please visit us at www.open-books.org.

Employee Matches

Want to Double your Donation? Did you know that hundreds of companies across the country match employee charitable contributions dollar-for-dollar?
 
How It Works
 
1. Contact your employer’s Human Resources and ask whether your company matches employee donations to Open Books.
2. Request & fill out your company’s matching gift forms, and submit along with any necessary documentation.
3. Any nonprofit forms can be sent to:

Open Books
651 W. Lake Street
Chicago, IL 60661