Mountain America Opens Little Free Libraries to Promote Early Literacy

By age five, 90% of a child’s critical brain development has occurred. Early literacy provides the foundation children need to be successful in school. Without access to books during early childhood development, many children fall behind in school. An estimated 60% of U.S. children living in poverty do not have a single book in their home.

To encourage early literacy and love of reading, Mountain America, in partnership with Southwest Human Development, has opened six Little Free Libraries. Located inside Mountain America Arizona branches, these free libraries make it easy to share books to help children and families succeed.

Community members can stop by a Mountain America location to donate or pick up a book. Donations can also be made to the virtual book drive at helpazkids.org or at any Arizona Mountain America branch.