Attention Florida educators! Are you seeking effective strategies to assist students in your classroom who are struggling to meet grade-level reading standards? The New Worlds Reading Initiative is here to lend a helping hand! Eligible students can receive a selection of free books, delivered directly to their homes every month throughout the academic year. Here’s a breakdown of how the program operates.
What is New Worlds Reading?
New Worlds Reading is a FREE Florida literacy initiative, overseen by the UF Lastinger Center for Learning, designed to help close the reading gap while making reading enjoyable and accessible. The program aims to assist Florida’s striving readers in enhancing their literacy skills, boosting reading confidence, and nurturing a lifelong passion for reading. Eligible students receive a free book at home each month throughout the academic year.
Once a child enrolls in New Worlds Reading, they remain enrolled through 5th grade, even if their reading skills improve. A student who starts in VPK will receive a total of 63 books by the end of 5th grade, creating a substantial home library!
What students qualify for free books through New Worlds Reading?
Almost 1 million Florida students qualify for this free program! All students in VPK through 5th grade in Florida VPK, public, or charter schools who are not reading at grade-level standards are eligible. There are no income prerequisites for New Worlds Reading. Review the complete eligibility criteria here.
What books are included in the New Worlds Reading program?
The titles are selected in collaboration with the Florida Department of Education and Scholastic, available in English, Spanish, Haitian Creole, and braille. Families can pre-select their book choices from the list, which includes both fiction and nonfiction titles for every grade level. Sample titles include:
- Pete the Cat: Five Little Pumpkins by James Dean
- I Am Enough by Grace Byers
- Jabari Tries by Gaia Cornwall
- The Word Collector by Peter H. Reynolds
- The Magic School Bus® Rides Again: Sink or Swim by Judy Katschke
- Most Wanted: Deadliest Ocean Creatures by John Perritano
- Front Desk by Kelly Yang
View the complete book list here.
What else do families receive?
Each shipment includes a free reading guide containing activities and suggestions to help families maximize their new book experience. Additionally, families can access free reading resources on the program’s website, including a Reading Passport and Reading Journal.
How do families enroll in the program?
The enrollment process is straightforward—it takes only about 5 minutes. Families need to provide basic information such as caregiver contact details, along with their child’s birth date, grade, and school. They also select the books they wish to receive for the upcoming year and provide a shipping address. Once approved, they will begin receiving their books within a few months. Access the simple online application here.
How can teachers and families learn more about the program?
Utilize these free guides to gain further insight into the program and share it with families of eligible students.
Ready to assist your students in acquiring free books to enhance their reading journey? Download your free guides by filling out the form on this page.
