Programs
Current Programs
Four Seasons of Reads
Growing readers one season at a time
At Willsam Books, our aim is to partner with dedicated teachers and schools in underserved communities across Massachusetts to put books into the hands of children who need them the most. All books donated will be handpicked by classroom teachers. We believe teachers know their students best. That’s why Willsam Books allows educators to select the books that will have the greatest impact on students.
Our vision is to provide teachers and students with four books per year – two books for the classroom and two books that students take home.
Classroom books: Teachers are the heart of a child’s learning and know their students best – their reading level, their interests, and what will spark their curiosity. When books are used in classrooms, reading becomes a shared experience – students talk about stories, ask questions, and grow together. For a school year, Willsam Books will provide two books for the classroom for shared reading. Teachers may select new titles that spark curiosity and excitement, or replace well-loved curriculum books that are worn or damaged – ensuring every class always has beautiful, engaging books to read together. The two books will be provided in the Fall and the Spring.
Home books: We believe book ownership is a powerful tool. When a child owns a book at home, it allows more time to read and a quiet place to explore ideas, provides a sense of pride, and instills a lifelong relationship with reading. Children who grow up with their own books are far more likely to see reading as something they love, not something they have to do. For many children in underserved communities, books are rare at home. They may only encounter them at school or libraries. Owning a book means a child can read whenever they want, return to favorite pages, and build a personal relationship with reading. Willsam Books books will provide students books based on teacher recommendations in December before Winter break and in June before Summer break.
By placing books in classrooms and in homes, we believe Willsam Books creates a complete circle of learning. Teachers introduce children to reading. Books at home help that love grow. Together, they give every child – no matter their background – the chance to become a reader, a learner, and a dreamer.
The Open Shelf
Helping readers grow, one book at a time
While we encourage teachers and schools to participate in our Four Seasons of Reads program for its consistency and long-term impact, Willsam Books understands that every classroom has its own story and no two classrooms are the same. The Open Shelf exists to meets schools and teachers where they are, offering books through individual requests so every chid can receive the right book at the right time.
“We have a program called Four Seasons of Reads where kids get new books all year long – one in every season. But we also know that sometimes a classroom or kid needs a book right away. That’s why we have The Open Shelf – so teachers can ask for books whenever they need them. We just want every kid to always have a great story to read”
Will & Sam – Read On!
Success Stories
