United Way Of RI Hosting 14th Annual Children’s Book Drive

PROVIDENCE, RI — The United Way of Rhode Island is hosting its 14th annual Children’s Book Drive in support of Books Are Wings, whose mission puts free books into the hands of kids from Woonsocket to Westerly.

The book drive runs throughout the months of April and May.

See also: Cranston Cops Searching For Man In Connection With 'Multiple Shoplifting Incidents'

The book drive has collected more than 390,000 books since its inception, including 45,664 in 2025. The drive accepts new and gently used children’s books for babies through students in grade five.

See also: Utah Man Charged With Conspiracy And Intent to Distribute Cocaine

Through the end of May, United Way encourages local businesses, organizations, individuals and families to host book collections to help children across Rhode Island build their own home libraries. All books donated through the drive will be distributed by Books Are Wings through their school- and community-based programs, and summer learning partner sites.

See also: Greenville Man Sentenced to 28 Months In Federal Prison For Bank Fraud

The drive also includes a way to participate virtually by purchasing new books from Books Are Wings’ Amazon Wish List and having them shipped directly to the organization.

“When children aren’t reading proficiently by the end of third grade, they are far less likely to graduate high school, and right now, just one in three Rhode Island students meet or exceed reading expectations,” Cortney Nicolato, the president and CEO of United Way of Rhode Island, said in a media release.

See also: Cranston Man Killed In Paramotor Aircraft Crash

“Our Children’s Book Drive is a simple but powerful way the community can help ensure under-resourced families have access to the books children need to learn and thrive,” Nicolato said.

For questions related to the book drive, or to request customizable posters and other assets, email bookdrive@unitedwayri.org.

See also: Chance Of Showers Throughout The Week In Rhode Island