| Formation | 1992 |
|---|---|
| Founder | Kyle Zimmer Peter Gold Elizabeth Arky |
| Location | |
| Website | firstbook |
First Book is a nonprofit organization established in 1992 that aims to provide educational resources to children from low-income communities. The organization works to eliminate barriers to education by distributing books and other learning materials to educators and programs serving underserved populations.
First Book's stated mission is to promote educational equity by ensuring that all children, regardless of socioeconomic background, have access to quality learning materials.[ citation needed ]
The organization operates two primary distribution models: the First Book Marketplace, a nonprofit e-commerce platform offering discounted or free books and classroom resources; and the First Book National Book Bank, which distributes donated publisher overstock at no cost other than shipping and handling.[ citation needed ]
"First Book Marketplace," a platform offering discounted books and supplies to eligible educators and nonprofit programs. First Book also engages in advocacy and develops initiatives to address systemic educational inequities. [1]
First Book was founded in 1992 by Kyle Zimmer [2] , Peter Gold, and Elizabeth Arky in Washington, D.C. Zimmer, who serves as the organization's President and CEO, has received recognition for her work in education and social entrepreneurship. [3] [4]
First Book reports distributing millions of books and educational materials to schools, libraries, and community programs across the United States and Canada. The organization collaborates with publishers, corporate partners, and educators to advance literacy and learning. Coverage of First Book's activities has appeared in independent sources such as Publishers Weekly, which highlighted the organization's growth and impact. [5]