Imagine a classroom where the shelves are bare and a child is waiting for a story in a language they understand. For millions of children, the first page of a book is still out of reach. UNESCO estimated in 2024 that 251 million children and young people were out of school worldwide—a reminder that access to learning remains an urgent challenge. Read UNESCO’s findings.
Learning begins with belonging
Education is more than a seat in a classroom. It is the chance to discover a new idea, hear your own language reflected in a story, and imagine a future beyond what you can see today. Books, music, games and art can make learning feel welcoming—and help children connect with their communities and cultures.
Room to Read works with local communities to support children’s literacy and girls’ education. Its programs include reading instruction, teacher support and books created for children in local languages. That approach recognizes an important truth: lasting learning grows when communities help shape it.
Small actions can make a difference
A statistic this large can feel impossible to change. But progress is made through choices close to home: a volunteer reading aloud, a school sharing books, a community group hosting a tutoring session, or a donor helping educators reach more children.
- Ask a local school or library what learning support it needs.
- Share books and stories that reflect the languages and cultures of your community.
- Support a nonprofit with a clear, community-led education program.
Every child deserves the chance to learn, create and belong. A book cannot solve every barrier to education—but it can be a beginning. Help make that first page possible.