About Us
Our Mission:
Promoting the joy of reading through the expansion of book access and engagement points, including in-school book giveaways and volunteer classroom readers.
Our Vision:
All children in Knox County, regardless of economic status, have the resources to develop an intrinsic love of reading.
Our Values
Book Choice
Emphasis on the importance of choosing books to read for pure enjoyment.
Mirrors & Windows
Dedication to providing books that act as mirrors and windows, where children can see themselves reflected and understand that their stories matter.
Dignity
Commitment to bringing new or like-new books for our book giveaways, as every child should feel that they are acquiring a special item of their own.
Thoughtful Curation
Dedication to providing a wide variety of genres and topics as well as high quality and developmentally appropriate book choices.
Who We Are
For the Love of Reading offers a unique and engaging approach to literacy promotion in underserved communities, focusing on two key areas: book distribution and interactive storytimes.
Twice a year, we transform schools into vibrant “book stores” where Pre-K through 5th-grade students can select their own books for free. This experience not only provides access to reading materials but also empowers children by allowing them to choose books that spark their interest. Our carefully curated selection includes a wide range of genres, reading levels, and diverse representations, ensuring that every child can find stories that resonate with them.
Our commitment to quality sets us apart. We provide new or like-new books, offering children the dignity of owning fresh reading material. By the time a child completes elementary school with our program, they will have received 28 brand new books – a significant contribution to their home library and reading development.
In addition to book distribution, our dedicated volunteers conduct weekly read-aloud sessions in elementary classrooms. These interactive storytimes engage students and bring books to life, further nurturing their love for reading. Our efforts complement the broader educational landscape in Knox County. We proudly support the diligent work of teachers, reading specialists, and administrators who are implementing the science of reading in their classrooms.
Our mission is driven by a pressing need: only 21% of economically disadvantaged 3rd, 4th, and 5th graders in Knox County are reading at grade level, compared to 53% of their non-economically disadvantaged peers (TDOE 2024). This stark disparity underscores the importance of our work in bridging the achievement gap.
For the Love of Reading is more than just a book distribution program. We’re creating a culture of literacy, fostering a love for reading, and empowering children with the tools they need for academic success. Join us in our mission to bring the joy of reading to every child, regardless of their economic background.
Our History & Future
Beth Scoonover began taking steps to bring a vision to reality. She wanted to bring to life the world of books for the children at Christenberry Elementary School through a fun-filled, free book giveaway. She found immediate enthusiasm and support from her faith community, as well as from the staff and administration of Christenberry, and the work of For the Love of Reading was born.
Eventually, as volunteers and board members connected with teachers and administrators from other schools, the work of the organization began being requested to expand. What started out as a small initiative has grown in the ‘post-pandemic’ era to include providing book giveaway events at 8 elementary schools around Knoxville, and providing weekly volunteer readers at 3 of those same schools.
By 2026, our bold vision is to expand to serve 15 schools in Knox County with the highest percentage of economically disadvantaged students. We look forward to flooding the city with great books and a love for reading!