My Very Own Library

First we learn to read—then we read to learn!

Being a strong reader helps in every class and in every grade. The best way to become a strong reader? Practice. And when kids get to pick out their own books—chances are, they will read them!

For some of our community’s children, books are a luxury item. That’s where My Very Own Library comes in to help kids establish and grow their own personal home library.

How My Very Own Library Works

1. Through a partnership with Milwaukee Public Schools and Scholastic Book Fairs, United Way hosts three free book fairs at 14 Milwaukee Public Schools.
2. School representatives identify book fair dates.
3. Volunteers assist students with picking out books of their choice, at no cost to the students. All students receive 10 new books per school year.

Why My Very Own Library Works

Book ownership has a significant impact on:

• Emergent literacy skills
• Reading performance
• Attitude toward reading
• Motivation to read
• Reading behavior
• Basic language abilities
• General academic performance 

How to Get Involved

Volunteer at a book fair and recruit you friends to sign-up too. 

Sponsor the book fairs. Contact John Andrekopoulos at 414.263.8117 or via email to learn more.

Give a financial gift to Community Fund to make difference in educational out comes.