Inspire the joy of reading. Create a lifetime of opportunity.

Reading Is Fundamental (RIF) connects children with the joy of reading to spark imaginations and possibilities, putting kids on a path of reading proficiency. Because every child deserves the chance to succeed. 

Girl receiving RIF books

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Reading Is Fundamental is a 501(c)(3) non-profit

Join RIF to disrupt the literacy crisis

Reading Is Fundamental and our partners work to change the trajectory of the alarming U.S. literacy crisis, which creates barriers between our nation’s children and their opportunities.

25M

children in the U.S. cannot read proficiently.

61%

of U.S. children living at or below the poverty line have no books at home.

67%

of 4th graders read below grade level, setting them up for difficulty in school and beyond.

RIF in action

Since 1966, we’ve partnered with educators, families, and literacy advocates to change the trajectory of the literacy crisis. Check out the latest from RIF.

USA map with stats on it
RIF’s national impact

Designed by research, powered by joy

Our research-backed solutions, resources, and programs are created by literacy experts to ensure that kids develop a foundation for discovery, growth, and learning. In 2023 alone, we reached more than 24 million children with nearly 5 million books and reading resources—both in person and online.

Latest news and stories

Learn how we’re making a measurable impact for children in communities like yours. 

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