Senator Kim Introduces Legislation to Combat Book Deserts and Illiteracy

Source: Insider NJ

March 9, 2026, 5:05 pm


WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Andy Kim (D-NJ) introduced the Open Books, Open Doors Act to tackle book deserts, and break down barriers to the opportunity and promise of reading for millions of children in the United States. This comprehensive legislation would work to expand equitable access to books in every corner of the country, and close literacy gaps – so every child is positioned for long-term success in school, the workforce, and life.

“There’s nothing like watching my sons’ faces as they turn through the pages of a book they love. Reading is a powerful tool that every child in America should have,” said Senator Kim. “We know literacy and reading unlocks life-long success in school and out, but right now millions of kids across our country are living in book deserts. Let’s celebrate the power of reading by taking steps toward tackling illiteracy and gaps in book access to open doors for millions more children."

Nearly half of children in the United States live in “book deserts” -- communities without reliable access to public libraries, bookstores, or adequate reading materials. These gaps disproportionately affect low-income families, rural communities, and households facing language or housing instability.

Access to books is one of the strongest predictors of a child’s academic success, with data showing children who are not reading proficiently by third grade are far more likely to struggle academically and drop out of high school, limiting long-term economic mobility and workforce readiness.

Read more: https://www.insidernj.com/press-release/senator-kim-introduces-legislation-to-combat-book-deserts-and-illiteracy/