Reading is an invaluable skill that helps students to be successful learners. It also helps young people explore their imagination and creativity.To ensure students are given the best shot at success, The Hope Institute Learning Academy (HILA) in Chicago has partnered for the past three years with a nonprofit that provides each child it serves with 12 free books a year.

Bernie’s Book Bank works to increase book ownership among at-risk children in the Chicago area. The new and gently-used books that students receive can be read at home and shared with family members in an effort to increase literacy, engagement and a passion for reading.

“Our goal at HILA—along with Bernie’s Book Bank—is to develop life-long learners and readers; and this partnership has allowed us to do that,” said HILA Principal Mike Jakubowski.

HILA students receive six books in the first quarter and another six in the third quarter. The books arrive at HILA already sorted in what is known as “distribution-ready” bags, which allow staff members to give students age-appropriate reading materials quickly and efficiently.

According to Bernie’s Book Bank, the books not only help fuel students’ love for reading, but also create “book ambassadors” for a lifetime. The group also notes that an abundance of books in a child’s home has been said to be more important than both parents’ educational levels.