This September, we celebrated National Literacy Month with a milestone that means the world to us: Bernie’s Book Bank has officially distributed its 30 millionth free children’s book.
That’s 30 million opportunities for children to read, dream, and discover who they can become.
Why 30 Million Matters
Literacy Month reminds us that reading is more than a skill—it’s a gateway to opportunity. Yet, millions of children across America grow up without access to books at home. Without that access, many kids start kindergarten already behind, and the gap only widens over time.
That’s where Bernie’s Book Bank steps in. Since 2009, we’ve provided free, high-quality books to children who need them most—because we believe that books change everything.
Our Journey to 30 Million
From the very first books we packed in Brian Floriani’s garage to the millions now moving through our 55,000-square-foot facility—and now our soon-to-be Greater Milwaukee facility too—Bernie’s Book Bank has been on an incredible journey.
2012: 1 million books distributed
2019: 15 million books distributed
2021: 20 million books distributed
2023: 25 million books distributed
2025: 30 million books distributed
Each milestone tells a story, not just of numbers, but of lives touched. Volunteers who give their time, donors who fuel the mission, and most importantly, children who light up when they hold a book that’s truly their own.
Our celebration isn’t only about numbers—it’s also about sharing stories together.
Throughout September, we’ve brought authors directly into classrooms to read with children, spark imagination, and remind us all of the joy that comes from turning the page.
During one Read-Aloud event on Thursday, September 18th, author Shifa Saltagi Safadi visited Durkin Park Elementary School to share her book Kareem Between. The students were captivated as they laughed, asked questions, and even imagined their own stories. For many children, it was the first time they’d ever met a real author, making the magic of reading feel even more alive.
These events are a powerful way to connect children with books, give them role models who love reading, and show that stories truly come alive when they are shared.
Kelly Ranftl, a librarian at Durkin Park Elementary, shared:
“Literacy is so important because it teaches kids empathy and creates connections, whether it’s something they have in common in real life and they find their interest in a book, or whether it’s something where they are totally different from the character in their story. They can now identify with that character in the book that they are reading.”
And one student told us:
“My favorite book is Captain Underpants and The Magic School Bus. When I saw other kids making books, I decided to try it too. So far, I have books about Dog Man and Cat Ninja, but I’m making one right now about Shark Man who saves the world with Cat Ninja and Dog Man too.”
These are the moments that make 30 million more than a number—it’s a movement.
As proud as we are of this milestone, our work is far from finished. There are still too many children who lack the basic tools to build a brighter future.
Following Literacy Month, we invite you to join us in writing the next chapter:
- Give – Every $16 puts 8 books into a child’s hands.
- Volunteer – Pack books with us and be part of the movement.
- Share – Spread the word about #BooksChangeEverything.
Together, we can ensure the next 30 million books reach children even faster, because every child deserves the chance to read, learn, and succeed.
#BooksChangeEverything
