Our solutions

Reading Is Fundamental’s (RIF’s) research-backed solutions inspire the joy of reading in children, deepening their motivation to read and setting them on the path to becoming proficient readers. Find out how we connect children in underserved communities with books and reading resources, as we tackle the most formidable literacy crisis our nation has seen in decades.

Girls looking at books on a table
The RIF model - simple
The joy of reading

The RIF model

The joy of reading underlies everything we do to drive the reading frequency, motivation, and engagement children need to become skilled readers. The joy of reading is a critical complement to the science of reading depicted in Scarborough’s Reading Rope. Learn more about RIF’s joy of reading framework as well as explore the research that supports RIF’s model and learn more about RIF’s Theory of Change models that form the foundation for all of our programmatic work.

Children boy far away at book selection table RIF event
Choice, access, and engagement

Our programs

RIF’s program and content offerings provide both physical and digital books and reading resources to meet children where they live, learn, and play, creating a culture of reading in the classroom and at home. Our programs are customizable and scalable to ensure that we are effectively supporting our educators, families, literacy advocates, and the corporate and foundation partners who make our work possible.

Teacher class thank you notes to RIF Stamford, CT
Measurable results

Our impact

Since 1966, RIF has worked to close the equity gap for children by providing books and reading resources to communities nationwide. In the 55+ years since, we’ve had an impact on the lives of over 160 million children, creating generations of RIF Kids along the way.

Measurable impact since 1966

Our achievements are not possible without the generous support of our corporate, institutional, and government partners. Your partnership amplifies our impact on the U.S. literacy crisis.

160+M

children impacted throughout all 50 states, DC, and all U.S. territories.

430M

books and reading resources distributed in person and online.

55+ Years

focused on closing equity gaps by reaching children in historically underserved communities. 

Latest news and stories

Learn how we’re making a measurable impact for children in communities like yours. 

All news and stories

Make a gift that closes equity gaps and opens doors

Donate to RIF to ensure that every child has access to books they need to experience the joy of reading, the path to becoming a skilled reader and uncovering opportunities.

Young boy student holding an open book