13-05-2025
Wichita kids get free books for summer reading
WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) — Nearly 2,800 elementary students across Wichita took home new books last week, thanks to a citywide effort to prevent summer learning loss and build literacy skills at an early age.
A total of 5,572 books were distributed to 2,786 K–3 students across 13 Wichita Public Schools as part of the 2025 Champions for Literacy initiative — a national campaign that pairs sports with reading advocacy. Each student received two books and additional resources to support reading at home.
The effort comes in response to sobering figures from the Kansas Department of Education showing that 77% of Wichita third graders were not reading proficiently in the 2023–2024 school year.
To help reverse that trend, United Way of the Plains, Wichita State University, and Wichita Public Schools partnered to raise funds and awareness through the Champions for Literacy campaign. The initiative culminated in special WSU men's and women's basketball games in February, where fans contributed 151 donations. With support from a matching grant by International Paper, the effort raised $25,142.
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'Wichita State University is a powerful partner in our community's #ForceForGood,' Pete Najera, President and CEO of United Way of the Plains, said in a statement. 'This program provides help and hope for our local students and future Shockers.'
The initiative drew widespread support from more than 25 community organizations, with volunteers helping sort, package, and distribute books.
Books were delivered to students at the following elementary schools: Adams, Buckner, College Hill, Gordon Parks, Harry Street, Irving, Jackson, L'Ouverture, Mueller, Ortiz, Spaght, Washington, and Woodland.
To learn more about the Champions for Literacy initiative, visit
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