Our Impact & Reach

Two adults sit on the floor with two young children; one adult holds a baby while the other helps a toddler look at a picture book. Chairs and bags are visible in the background.

An adult in a pink shirt sits on a classroom rug, showing an illustrated book to young children. Colorful storage shelves and frog and pig artwork decorate the room.

Smiling blond toddler in a turquoise dress holds up a bright green piece of paper while other children and adults sit nearby on a carpeted floor.

Serving Families Across Arizona

Founded in Tucson, Arizona, Make Way for Books now works in underserved communities around the state.

For Families

Birth to Five Literacy Journey

Birth to Five Literacy Journey reaches families in Maricopa and Pima counties, equipping more than 1,000 parents and caregivers each year with the knowledge, skills, tools, and confidence to support early literacy at home.

For Educators

Educator Literacy Collaborative

Educator Literacy Collaborative serves approximately 500 educators each year, providing professional development, coaching, and practical tools to strengthen their knowledge and skills in supporting young children’s early literacy development. ELC’s reach has included educators across five Arizona counties.

Families and Educators

Tribal Communities

Across Arizona, Make Way for Books has partnered with educators in five tribal communities, providing professional development, coaching, and thoughtfully curated book collections that reflect the cultures, experiences, and communities of the children they serve.

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Several young children gather around a seated adult in a classroom or childcare setting while another adult holds up an open illustrated book. A child sits at a table in the foreground, and shelves and toys are visible in the background.

Success Starts With Reading

Founded in Tucson in 1998, Make Way for Books started with six volunteers and a simple but powerful idea: that books and the people who share them can change a child’s life. Our goal is to support parents, caregivers, and educators on their journey to becoming their children’s first, best teachers. Watch our story.

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Support Early Childhood Literacy

Too many children start school behind — and without early support, they often stay behind. Your gift helps Make Way for Books equip families and educators with the skills and resources to build a strong foundation for lifelong learning.