I am starting a project called the Book Bridge Initiative that aims to foster a love for reading by providing free access to books for students in Title 1 elementary schools.

The literacy gap is widening due to the lasting effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as a lack of exposure/access to reading experiences and literature resources, which further impacts youth education. I aim to help reduce this issue through free book fairs where children can pick any book of their choosing at a fun book fair event in order to take home and enjoy. Money donated would be going towards buying books for these children (currently for a summer event at Talbott Springs Elementary) so that they can find the joys in reading without barriers.

About:

My name is Natalie Werner and I am a current high school junior in Columbia, Maryland.

Visit us online at The Book Bridge Initiative