Changing Children’s Lives Through Literacy
Make Way for Books is committed to helping parents, caregivers and educators give young children the strong start they deserve through books, everyday moments and the power of human connection.
Our Mission & Vision
Make Way for Books works to advance early literacy and school readiness for children from birth to age 5 by empowering the adults who matter most in their lives. Our mission is to give all children the chance to read and succeed.
We envision an Arizona where every child starts kindergarten ready to learn, read and thrive, regardless of ZIP code or family income. To get there, we equip parents, caregivers and early educators with evidence-based tools, coaching and resources that turn everyday interactions into powerful learning moments. Because when adults are supported, children flourish.
Early literacy isn’t just a personal milestone; it’s a community one. When children build strong language and literacy skills early, the ripple effects extend across generations, strengthening families, schools and communities across Arizona.
Supporting Families and Educators in Arizona
Arizona’s children are full of potential. Make Way for Books works alongside families and educators across the state to make sure that potential is never limited by access. From Tucson to Maricopa County and beyond, we meet people where they are: in schools, libraries, family resource hubs and community centers.
We know that parents, caregivers and educators are already their child’s most important teachers. Our role is to build on the strengths they already have, offering practical strategies and joyful learning experiences that fit into everyday life. Together, we’re giving Arizona’s children a strong foundation for all future learning.
How We’re Making a Difference
Our programs are designed with one goal in mind: children who are ready to read, learn and succeed. Through The Story Project, we coach early educators to create classrooms rich in language and literacy. Through Story School, we engage families in bilingual, play-based learning experiences in community spaces they trust.
The results speak for themselves. Of the children who participate in our programs, 75% meet or exceed reading benchmarks through third grade. In a state where less than 40% of children meet third grade benchmarks, this is a game changer for our children and schools.
Collaboration & Partnership
No organization changes a community alone. Make Way for Books works hand in hand with schools, childcare centers, libraries, community organizations and funders who share our belief that early literacy is the foundation for everything that follows.
Our partnerships allow us to extend our reach, deepen our impact and ensure that the families and educators who need support the most can access it. We’re proud to work alongside dedicated partners across Arizona, and we’re always looking for new collaborators who want to invest in children’s futures.
About Make Way For Books
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 empower children, families and educators across Arizona. Watch our story.
Who We Are
Our Board of Directors
Meet the dedicated leaders who guide Make Way for Books’ mission and help ensure that every program we offer is grounded in excellence, equity and lasting impact.
Our Team
Our staff brings passion, expertise and deep community knowledge to everything we do. Get to know the people behind Make Way for Books’ programs, partnerships and day-to-day work.
