KPMG US, First Book, and the Little Free Library nonprofit organization are collaborating to bring over 5,000 books to communities with 25 new Little Free Libraries. In recognition of National Literacy Month, KPMG volunteers will assemble and install five libraries throughout the fall that will serve Boys & Girls Clubs in Atlanta, Boston, Houston, Los Angeles, and New York. The remaining 20 libraries will be mailed to Clubs across the country.
Each library will be stocked with a starter collection of books provided through KPMG Friends & Family for Literacy (KFFL) and First Book, providing children and families immediate access to free books.
“Every child deserves the opportunity to discover books that spark curiosity, connection, and a lifelong love of reading,” said Daniel Gumnit, CEO and Executive Director of Little Free Library. “By bringing books directly into Boys & Girls Clubs across the country, this partnership is creating welcoming places where young people can choose a book and experience the joy of reading. We’re grateful to KPMG and First Book for helping us put thousands of books within reach of kids and families.”
“Books can open doors to learning, imagination, and opportunity, but first they need to be within reach. Together with Little Free Library and First Book, we’re helping create lasting resources where children and families can discover new stories, explore new ideas, and build lifelong reading habits,” said Matt Johnson, National Co-Chair KFFL, and KPMG AI Audit & Assurance Leader.
The library builds are part of KFFL’s broader commitment to advancing literacy and educational opportunities for children and families nationwide. Since 2008, KFFL has partnered with First Book, raising more than $7 million and putting nearly 8 million books into the hands of children served by First Book across the country.
“For almost 20 years, KPMG has partnered with First Book to champion the importance of reading and bring the power of books to children through the KFFL program,” said Kyle Zimmer, the President, CEO and Co-founder of First Book. “It’s one thing to say that you support a cause: KPMG demonstrates that support again and again, with thousands of hours contributed by KPMG offices nationwide, with everyone from senior level partners to family members and interns, helping to distribute books, do read-alouds, and show how much they care about kids and educators in schools, after-school programs, and local programs. This initiative, bringing brand-new books from First Book to Boys & Girls Clubs through the Little Free Library, is yet another example of KPMG’s innovative and insightful actions to support communities. This will benefit children now and for years to come!”
Find a library near you, and support efforts to expand book access in your community. KPMG professionals, friends, family members, clients, and community members can also support literacy initiatives through KFFL’s ongoing programs and volunteer opportunities. You can learn more at KPMG Corporate Responsibility.