UPS "Dear Reader" Note Project

Imagine a world in which all children see themselves in the pages of a book!

Thanks to UPS’s gift of 4,320 culturally responsive children’s books and your notes of encouragement, we are taking a step towards that reality!

At Metro United Way (MUW), we know access to books is a leading indicator of a child’s success in school. We also know that when children see themselves reflected in books, it shows them that we see and value all aspects of them – including attributes related to race and culture.

Over the coming year, these vitally important books will be distributed through a network of 40 Little Free Libraries filled and maintained by MUW. Little Free Libraries are book sharing boxes that provide 24/7 access to free books for individuals and families to keep and build their own libraries or return and share with their neighbors.

Getting books into the community is powerful, but it is even more so when coupled with an encouraging note to our young readers. These notes create a personal connection and can inspire them to read that book again and again. The “Dear Reader” note that you submit below will be printed on to a label and affixed on to the books by your colleagues in Louisville for distribution to our Little Free Libraries.

Project Instructions:

Step One: In the box below, write a “Dear Reader” note to the child (ages 1-6) who chooses this book from the Little Free Library. Be creative and have fun writing your notes – they can include your favorite inspirational quote, a word of advice, a simple joke/riddle, or kind words of encouragement (please do not include religious messaging).

Examples include:

  • Knowledge is power! As long as you keep reading and learning, nothing can stop you!
  • “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” – Nelson Mandela
  • Readers are achievers! You are a future leader, and our community is proud of you!

Step Two: Click submit & reload this page to repeat! Our goal is for each participant to make 10 “Dear Reader” notes – please make each message unique.

Thank you, UPS, for the support of this project and thank YOU for taking the time to encourage reading and brighten a child’s day!

 

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