Governor's Early Literacy Foundation

06/03/2026

Strong literacy work doesn’t happen in isolation.

SELECT, GELF's Statewide Early Literacy Education Collaborative of Tennessee, brings together educators and partners from across the state to collaborate, share ideas, and support Tennessee readers.

We’re looking forward to this summer’s SELECT Statewide Convening and the opportunity to continue learning alongside literacy champions from across Tennessee.

Register here: https://web.cvent.com/event/57eca5b7-8e1e-4895-8bce-7ea195c28f03/summary?environment=P2

06/02/2026

Across Tennessee, K-3 Home Library bookpacks are beginning to arrive at the homes of rising 1st-3rd grade students in participating districts, and we couldn’t be more excited for the summer reading ahead. 📚☀️

Each bookpack includes six books that students can add to their home libraries, along with grade-level activity sheets designed to help families keep reading and learning all summer long.

We can’t wait to see Tennessee students dive into new stories, build confidence as readers, and create fun reading moments at home this summer.

05/27/2026

What does it look like when educators, literacy leaders, and partners from across Tennessee come together to strengthen early literacy?

That’s the heart of SELECT, GELF's Statewide Early Literacy Education Collaborative of Tennessee.

This summer’s SELECT Statewide Convening will bring together partners from across the state to share ideas, learn from one another, and continue building momentum for Tennessee readers.

Registration is now open, and we would love for you to join us! https://web.cvent.com/event/57eca5b7-8e1e-4895-8bce-7ea195c28f03/summary?environment=P2

05/20/2026

05/20/2026

Last week, a few of our team members had the opportunity to visit with one of this year’s Tenn Under 10 awardees, Ezra Bacon, during a special celebration at his school.

Tenn Under 10, powered by PNC, recognizes Tennessee third graders who have overcome literacy challenges and shown determination, growth, and a love of reading. It was inspiring to see Ezra celebrated by his teachers, classmates, and school community!

Congratulations again, Ezra! We can’t wait to see all the great things ahead for you.

05/15/2026

Teachers and librarians across Tennessee are continuing to receive K-3 Home Library book packs, and we love seeing the excitement already building for summer reading season. 📚

Over the next few weeks, thousands of rising 1st-3rd grade students will receive book packs delivered directly to their homes, helping them stay engaged in reading all summer long. Each pack includes 6 high-quality, grade-level books and activities designed to keep students reading, learning, and growing outside the classroom.

A big thank you to the educators, librarians, and school districts getting students excited about the books headed their way. We can’t wait for students to start opening their packs this summer!

05/14/2026

One more look from the ribbon cutting at the new Storybook Trail at Napier Elementary 📚

Seeing students and families explore the trail together was such a great reminder that literacy can happen anywhere, whether it’s in the classroom, at home, or outside on a walking path with a good book.

We’re grateful for partners like PNC, Metro Nashville Public Schools, and Napier Elementary School for helping create spaces that make reading fun, interactive, and accessible for children and families.

05/12/2026

Thank you Delta Dental of Tennessee for inviting GELF to be part of 60 Moments of Surprise Smiles!

When a Linden Elementary School librarian in Oak Ridge shared her wish to send students home for the summer with 3-4 new books, Delta Dental made it happen, and we were grateful to play a part.

Access to books at home can make a lasting difference for children and families, especially during the summer months. We’re proud to partner with organizations like Delta Dental that help create joyful reading moments for Tennessee students.

Happy summer reading to our friends at Linden Elementary!

A media specialist at Linden Elementary School saw a need to help students get books of their own, so she turned to Facebook and asked for help. The response she received was overwhelming.

04/27/2026

We’re grateful for the members of Tennessee’s General Assembly who joined us at this year’s Literacy Alliance Dinner and for their continued partnership to strengthen early literacy across our state.

As the 114th General Assembly adjourns, we recognize the impact of that support. It ensures more than 500,000 children, families, and educators across Tennessee receive books and literacy resources through Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library and our K–3 Home Library program.

These photos tell that story. From leaders showing up in support, to students receiving books of their own, this work is reaching classrooms, homes, and communities in all 95 counties.

We’re proud to continue this work together to ensure every child in Tennessee has the opportunity to read and succeed!

01/15/2026

There are only a few days left to nominate a TN 3rd grader for Tenn Under 10, powered by PNC!

This annual initiative honors ten outstanding 3rd-grade students from across Tennessee who have shown perseverance and growth in literacy. Selected students receive a $2,000 post-secondary education scholarship and statewide recognition for their reading journey.

🔗 Submit a nomination: https://governorsfoundation.org/home-library/k-3-home-library/tenn-under-10