Our Research
Every RIF program we offer is built on evidence. Our programmatic approach to instilling the joy of reading is grounded in research about the importance of reading engagement, motivation, and frequency in driving reading outcomes. Explore the research behind each of our programs below.
RIF's Research-Driven Programs
Reading Is Fundamental (RIF) is committed to advancing childhood literacy through research-driven programs that help children develop strong reading skills and a lifelong love of reading. Our literacy research examines the impact of book ownership, family engagement, and evidence-based literacy interventions on student reading outcomes and achievement. Explore findings from our Books for Ownership program, Read for Success initiative, and Middle School Family Literacy Initiative (MSFLI) to learn how increased access to books and literacy resources helps children thrive in school and beyond.
Books for Ownership
Books for Ownership operates on a research-backed premise: when children have the freedom to choose books and the opportunity to own them, they become more motivated, more frequent, and more confident readers. The program enables children to select new, age-appropriate books to take home and own, supported by resources for parents, educators, and local literacy advocates to create a continuous focus on reading.
Read for Success
Read for Success is aligned with RIF's philosophy that access to books, combined with an increased interest in reading, can improve reading proficiency. RIF The program's two-year efficacy study, funded by the U.S. Department of Education, validated its impact, and the program can be implemented in schools, after-school programs, and community settings, during the school year or as a summer enrichment initiative.
Middle School Family Literacy Initiative (MSFLI)
The Middle School Family Literacy Initiative (MSFLI) expands on RIF's research-backed Books for Ownership model to give middle school students opportunities to select diverse books to take home and own, supported by resources for families, educators, and local literacy advocates. The program aims to engage middle school students and families from culturally and linguistically diverse communities while integrating current models of literacy education for middle school students.
Want to read more supporting research?
Reading Is Fundamental’s (RIF’s) programmatic approach on instilling the joy of reading is grounded in research about the importance of reading engagement, motivation, and frequency in driving reading outcomes.
Read more research supporting the RIF model