Family Books Program

Building home libraries. Strengthening family literacy. Connecting community.

Access to food should not be separated from access to books.

The Family Books Program is a Wren Works initiative designed to embed literacy support directly within trusted community spaces. Through our partnership with the Lebanon Food Pantry, families receive free, high-quality children’s books each month—helping build home libraries and shared reading habits over time.

This program is structured as a pilot model exploring how literacy resources can be delivered at the point of social service in a way that is measurable, sustainable, and replicable.

How the Program works

[Weekly?] Book Distribution

  • Each child receives on new book to own

  • Families may select additional gently used books at no cost

  • Titles are selected for high-interest themes, accessibility across ages, and availability in English and Spanish

  • Books are chosen to encourage shared reading between caregivers and children

Every featured book includes a free digital STEAM resource with:

  • Shared reading prompts

  • Simple creative activities

  • Extensions that support curiosity in science, art, nature, and storytelling

These resources are designed to make reading an active, meaningful experience at home.

Free Monthly Storytime Events

Wren Works hosts community storytime events with shared reading experiences, hands-on arts activities, and nature-based learning opportunities with resources provided by Ohio Department of Natural Resources.

Invest in Family Literacy

The family Books Program is built on a simple premise: access to books should not depend on household income. This work is sustained through community investment.