The push to keep children reading is in full effect for the nonprofit organization the Junior League of Tampa.
According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), around 45 million American adults are functionally illiterate and can’t read above a 5th grade level. The Junior League of Tampa wanted to take action by creating the MILO project in 2016.
MILO, or Mobile Interactive Literacy Opportunity, was created to reach underserved children in the Hillsborough County area. They started this initiative by delivering books by bus then eventually placing small libraries called Giving Libraries around the county. The Junior League of Tampa’s mission is to grant children and their families easy access for literary tools.
“It’s absolutely essential, very important for parents to have reading materials in their home for their children,” said retired elementary school teacher Kathleen Reitz. “Let’s just face it, after a 12-hours shift, you’re probably not gonna want to get in the car and go to the library.”
This initiative is targeted toward parents just as much as children. Not only are parents responsible for getting their children books, the Junior League of Tampa wants parents to take their children’s literacy seriously.
Kids and parents are able to check out as many books as they want for free. The MILO project also has outreach events where they have book giveaways to underserved communities.
The Junior League of Tampa has partnered with Hillsborough County Public Library, Children’s Board of Hillsborough County, WEDU PBS, UACDC and Tampa Family Health Centers to carry out MILO and assist children with their literary needs.
Use this map link to find a Giving Library near you.
Credits
Reporter: McKenzie Muskett and Alice Barlow
Anchor: Emari Craft
Show Editor and Producer: Lauren Siegal
Web Editor: Sybrice Tucker
