Inspiring the joy of reading for 60 years. Creating a nation of readers.

For sixty years, Reading Is Fundamental (RIF) has connected 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.

RIF book mobile

Be Part of the Next 60 Years

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

Erin Bailey speaking with Mary Pope Osborne

The Power of Story with Mary Pope Osborne

Join Dr. Erin Bailey, host of Reading Inspires! podcast, as she sits down with Mary Pope Osborne, author of the beloved Magic Tree House series, to explore how a life of adventure, imagination, and a love of words led to one of the most iconic children's book series of all time.

Skybrary Apps We Love and App of the Day

Sixty Years Strong and Sharing the Joy of Reading with Every Child

Sixty years after RIF began putting books into children’s hands, our commitment to free and equitable access has never been stronger. Today, through RIF’s reading app, Skybrary, we’re bringing our mission full circle—providing 100 free books to every child and ensuring that all children, everywhere, have the opportunity to read, learn, and grow. 

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.

map with literacy stats
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 2025 alone, we reached 25 million children with 12 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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