Volunteer to read to children: We offer a variety of volunteer opportunities that fit into busy schedules through Reading Mentoring Programs. Volunteers commit to read one-on-one with a child for one hour each week or to small groups of children in childcare centers for one hour once a month.

How does it work? Volunteers are needed at childcare centers in the mornings and late afternoons. Volunteers read with children in school during the child’s lunch period. Volunteers read with children in local libraries after-school and in the early evenings on weeknights and on Saturday morning and early afternoon.

Beginning with Books maintains relationships with childcare centers throughout the City of Pittsburgh and Allegheny County. Volunteers can choose a participating childcare center convenient to their home or work. Library reading sessions take place at one of fifteen branches of the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh. Lunchtime reading sessions are currently available at Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary School on the Northside of Pittsburgh.

What are the benefits? Children receive the benefit of one-on-one attention, enriched conversation about books and other experiences, and activities that build the skills and understanding of literacy, as well as the joys and benefits.

How can I learn more? Please contact Debbie El, Reading Mentoring Coordinator at 412-361-8560 or email Debbie El; or Tess Riesmeyer, Special Projects Coordinator at 412-361-8560 or e-mail at Tess Riesmeyer