DETROIT (3/13/2024) -- To celebrate reading for all children Detroit Mercy Athletics is partnering with Rx for Reading Detroit to help build an Rx for Reading Library in a low-income health clinic in Detroit. Rx for Reading is a non-profit literacy initiative that works to expand access to children's books and support families in reading with their children. 

Research has shown that having access to books improves reading performance and children's attitudes towards reading.  

In our state, only 16% of low-income children are reading proficiently by the 4th grade, which is the single greatest predictor of graduation from high school and a successful career. Limited access to books is one important factor: 61% of low-income families have no books in their home for children.

Rx for Reading's Clinic Library Initiative works to create waiting room libraries in low-income health, dental, and WIC clinics in the Detroit community. All children who go to Rx for Reading Libraries are invited to pick a book to take home. For many children, this is the first book they own. 

Detroit Mercy Athletics is collecting all types of new or gently used books for babies, toddlers, kids and teens for the Month of March. Our Goal is to collect 350 books, If we are able to collect 350 books we will be able to sustain an Rx for Reading Clinic Library for three months. We will put boxes in the locker rooms and around Calihan Hall. 

To find out more about Rx for Reading, check out their webpage or follow them on Facebook or X!