A new effort to promote early literacy is underway in Warren County, offering free books to new parents before they even leave the hospital.

Ruby Wiles, founder of Free Books for Kids Town, recently launched "Libraries for Littles" at Warren General Hospital.

Through community donations, the program allows parents of newborns to select five books at no cost, helping them start their children on a journey with reading from day one.

“I’m thrilled to be able to do this because literacy is so important,” Wiles stated. The program reflects findings from international studies showing that children’s academic success is positively impacted by the number of books available in the home. “The more books, the greater the chance for academic success,” noted Wiles.

Amanda Johnston, a new mother from Warren and one of the first to benefit from the program, shared her appreciation. “I’m so grateful for this program and can’t wait to start reading to Thomas,” she said. “It’s awesome that you guys do this program. I’m excited to see it expand in Warren County. I hope that everyone uses this privilege and that other towns around us see this, and maybe other hospitals could benefit from it."

Wiles noted that while the program currently has enough books to support multiple families, donations are always needed to ensure it can continue to grow.

Those interested in learning more about Free Books for Kids Town and Libraries for Littles, can find additional information on their website, www.freebookskidstown.com.