Bridge The Gap
Promoting Literacy & Culture
Culture Books Literacy and Cultural Reading Program is a 501(c)3 founded in Chattanooga, TN. We are on a mission to spread a message of hope, compassion and academic excellence. America's children are the victim's of the country's literacy crisis and struggle with basic reading skills at an alarming rate. Culture Books believes that a single action can make a difference , and that collective action can put children on a path to lifelong success. We combine reading outreach and cultural advocacy to shape a brighter world for our children. Our Culture Kids develop a love for learning and a sense of community.
The Need
Literacy & Diversity Crisis
34% of children entering kindergarten lack basic skills needed to read. 65% of 4th graders read below level. 37% of students graduate high school at or above reading proficiency.
5% of children books in a 2018 study featured Latinx characters. 1% were American Indians. 7% were Asian Pacific Islander. 10% were African American. 27% were about Animals. 50% were about white characters.
Our Solution
The Fundementals Rooted in Culture
Our mission is two-fold. We are giving children reading fundamentals, like comprehension and retention, to excel academically. At the same time, we are equipping our youngest generation with a hunger to embrace diversity. Our book selections empower children of color with characters that look like them, while exposing all families to culture.
Our Course of Action
Create Lifelong Readers & Leaders
Nelson Mandela
" Education is the most powerful weapon which can be used to change the world."