About Us
Mission
Open Books brings LGBTQ+ affirming stories to school libraries, so every child can feel like they belong.
Vision
Open Books imagines a day when schools are full of stories that make every student feel seen. Until that day, we will champion access to diverse and affirming literature, to communicate that the LGBTQ+ experience is real and all children are valued.
Our Model
Books are a simple, powerful tool for changing lives. We harness the power of books with our three-pronged approach:
District Down
Open Books magnifies impact by partnering with school districts. This allows us to place our books in all elementary school libraries in the district, ensuring the books have a shelf life of 8 to 10 years.
Early Stage Intervention
Open Books currently focuses on elementary students through their school libraries to help set the foundation for self-acceptance. Educators concur that by the time children reach middle school, they already experience isolation and a lack of representation.
Public School Libraries
Open Books focuses on public school libraries–which often struggle with funding–so all children have an organic opportunity to find diverse books. When children feel safe, they learn better.