Reach Out and Read Midwest

10/04/2026

We don’t measure our success by how many books we give away. We measure it by how well we equip medical providers to use those books to strengthen relationships between young children and the people who love them.

Thank you to all of our providers in Iowa and Nebraska who have competed our training and are delivering the Reach Out and Read program! We are so grateful for you! The intervention is delivered when they are babies, but the impact is seen for years beyond!!

09/30/2026

We are so exited to welcome University of Iowa Health Care Pediatrics North Dodge Street in Iowa City to Reach Out and Read. All 12 providers have completed training in our early literacy intervention model and are ready to share books and guidance with families during well-child visits. We can’t wait to see the connections they build through reading together!
And we couldn’t resist sharing how cure their exam rooms are!

09/25/2026

One of our favorite people! ❤️

Happy Dolly Day! 📚❤️

Inspired by Dolly Parton's iconic hit "9 to 5," Sept. 25 is a day to recognize Dolly's lifelong commitment to giving and literacy.

One way Dolly changed lives was through Dolly Parton's Imagination Library, which mails books directly to the homes of young children worldwide, creating more opportunities for reading, connection, and learning.

Celebrate by sharing a story with your little one and giving them one more reason to dream big.

09/25/2026

We are library nerds, and the Stuart Public Library in central Iowa did not disappoint! We had the chance to tour the library, meet its wonderful staff, and see the fun, welcoming spaces created for children. They offer so many great programs for kids, and everyone is welcome. Stop in and see why this library is truly the heart of the hometown!

09/09/2026

What an honor it is to have the Buffett Early Childhood Institute serving the children in our state! We are excited to work with organizations who share a common mission- to achieve the brightest future for all children in Nebraska.

Laura Holms and Kristin Christensen from Reach Out and Read Midwest visited the Institute recently, meeting with leaders to talk about early literacy, the Institute's work on a Comprehensive Literacy State Development (CLSD) grant, and more.

Reach Out and Read promotes early literacy and language development by training pediatric health care workers to connect with families early about the importance of reading and talking to babies and toddlers. Families also receive free books to build their own library. Learn more: https://reachoutandread.org/affiliate/midwest/

08/30/2026

Looking to make a real difference in your community? Raising Readers in Story County can use your dedication to literacy to support kids in Story County!

🌟Volunteer for fall Story Pals at Nevada Central Elementary School🌟

We’re looking for volunteers to read with preschool students and to foster connections, engagement, and a love of books.

A meaningful program where small moments have a big impact.
📍Central Elementary School in Nevada
👉Details in the image
👉Apply online at https://share.vomevolunteer.com/YxQvgvX8F5b

08/30/2026

08/30/2026

Dubuque’s community health center is marking its 20th anniversary this year amid both patient and specialty services growth.

08/06/2026

Happy 60th Anniversary to Community Action Health Center!

For six decades, your team has made an incredible difference in the lives of families across western Nebraska, and we’re honored to be part of your next chapter.

We’re excited to launch Reach Out and Read at CAPWN in Gering, where children will begin receiving a new book during their well-child visits this fall!

Here's to the next 60 years of helping children grow up healthy, supported, and ready to read!

07/14/2026

We had such a great time visiting McFarland Clinic Pediatrics and our incredible friends at Raising Readers in Story County!

Thanks to their amazing partnership, thousands of children and families across Story County have received a new book and early literacy guidance during their well-child visits from 4 months through age 5. Even better, parents tell us the program is making a real difference! This parent surveys show families are reading together more often, enjoying books together, and feeling more confident supporting their child's early learning at home.

A special shoutout to Dr. Jill Alexander and her team for creating a clinic where Reach Out and Read is truly part of the culture. From the moment families walk through the door, it's clear that books, reading, and healthy child development are a priority.

Thank you for helping build a community where every child has the opportunity to grow up with books, language, and a lifelong love of reading!