Frequently Asked Questions

1) How does County Kids Read distribute books?

We distribute books in two ways:

1. We bring books to families and children at community events and by distributing them through 13 community partners including food banks, the Prince Edward Family Health team, and nonprofits including Community Living Prince Edward, Reaching for Rainbows, and more.

2. We bring children and families to books through our Book Room and School visits, during which school classes come to our space in the Parish Hall of St. Mary Magdalene Church for storytime and the chance to pick a book from our extensive collection.

2) How many books does County Kids Read give away each year?

We give away over 600 books every month, which works out to over 7000 each year. That’s a lot of opportunities for County kids to discover their new favourite book!

3) What makes County Kids Read different from other literacy programs for kids?

We give children the opportunity to take home their very own, brand new books – no strings attached. We are also currently piloting a new free one-on-one tutoring program.

4) Is the County Kids Read Book Room open to the public?

The Book Room is set aside for classroom visits and serves as our organization’s headquarters, so is not open to the public. 

5) How do my children get books from County Kids Read?

CKR’s book collection can be accessed through our 13 community partners listed here. We also hand out books at some community events. Visit our Connect page to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media to stay up to date on where you can find us!

6) What should I read with my kids? 

The world is full of books, with options for kids no matter their interests, age, or reading level. Our first advice is read them anything, and simply get them started on their journey of loving books by sharing the experience with them. 

See our Resources Page to learn more about how to promote literacy with the children in your life, and to view children’s reading lists we’ve prepared focused on important themes: mental health and wellness, exploring Indigenous culture, and diversity and inclusion.

7) Does County Kids Read accept book donations?

A key ingredient in the County Kids Read magic is the experience of receiving your very own, brand new book! Given the wide range in quality/condition of donated books and the considerable volunteer capacity it takes to process them, we are unable to take used book donations at this time. If you have new books to donate, please get in touch with Andrea at andrea@countykidsread.ca.

The most impactful way to help County Kids Read acquire more books is by making a cash donation. We order books at a discounted rate, which means your tax-receiptable donation will go a long way! Please visit our Support Us page to donate.

8) Who are the people behind County Kids Read? 

We are a volunteer-powered organization, made up of our volunteer board, our 30+ person volunteer team, and our part-time Executive Director and Community Engagement Coordinator. Each person brings their own knowledge, skills, and passion to our work for the good of County kids. You can learn more about us on our Team and Board pages at countykidsread.ca.

9) How is County Kids Read funded? 

We’re 70% funded by donations from individuals, Service Clubs, and business sponsors, and 30% by one-off project grants from foundations or government sources. 

10) How can I support County Kids Read?

You can donate, volunteer, and/or spread the word! The more people who support our work, the brighter the future will be for all children in our community. Click here to learn more!