Barkley’s Bookshelf Launches 2025 Summer Reading Program to Combat Summer Learning Loss in Cypress
Barkley’s Bookshelf, a Cypress-based nonprofit dedicated to promoting children's literacy, has announced the launch of its 2025 Summer Reading Program. This initiative aims to provide free books to children in underserved communities, addressing the critical issue of summer learning loss.
In partnership with Cy-Fair Helping Hands (CFHH) and supported by a Walmart Sparks Good grant from the Barker Cypress Road location, the program will distribute five new books, along with a bookmark and tote bag, to children from pre-kindergarten through fifth grade. Participants can choose from 30 popular titles, including bilingual options, ensuring access to engaging reading materials during the summer months. Registration for CFHH clients is open from April 1 through April 30, with books scheduled for delivery in mid-June.
Mobile Sidebar Ad
Access to books is a significant challenge in many low-income communities. According to the U.S. Department of Education, 61% of low-income families in the United States have no children's books at home, limiting opportunities for reading development outside of school. Further, research indicates that students can lose up to three months of reading skills during the summer break, leading to cumulative setbacks equivalent to a year behind their peers by the end of fifth grade, per Texas Childrens'. In the Cypress and Cy-Fair areas, initiatives like Barkley’s Bookshelf are vital in bridging educational gaps and providing essential resources to young learners.
Founded on March 14, 2022, by five women passionate about literacy and community service, Barkley’s Bookshelf has distributed over 14,000 free books to children from birth through high school. The organization's mission is to inspire a love for reading by providing personal libraries to children in need, particularly in areas identified as "book deserts." By equipping young readers with books they are excited to read, the nonprofit aims to foster continuous learning and mitigate the adverse effects of summer learning loss.
Mobile Sidebar Ad
Supporting Barkley’s Bookshelf is easy, and there are plenty of ways for Cypress residents to help bring books into the hands of kids who need them most. Whether it’s making a financial donation, purchasing books from the Amazon Wish List, or setting up a Facebook fundraiser, every little bit makes a difference in keeping local children engaged with reading. Hosting a book drive is another great way to get involved—gathering gently used or new books and donating them directly helps expand personal libraries for kids in underserved communities. Even everyday shopping can contribute through programs like Kroger Community Rewards, where a portion of purchases supports Barkley’s Bookshelf at no extra cost.
Kids can make a difference, too! Recently, a young book-lover asked for new Harry Potter books for her birthday—not for herself, but to donate to Barkley’s Bookshelf. She knew how much other kids would enjoy the series, and her thoughtful gift will bring the magic of reading to so many. Whether it’s donating a favorite book, rallying friends to contribute, or hosting a mini book drive, young readers can play a huge role in spreading literacy and joy.
A young book lover shares the magic of reading by donating Harry Potter books to Barkley’s Bookshelf for her birthday, If you or your child are interested in starting your own book drive or making a special donation, reach out to info@BarkleysBookshelf.org. For more information about Barkley’s Bookshelf and its programs, visit their official website at barkleysbookshelf.org.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
