Celebrate Library Giving Day.

The Literacy Crisis

Reading scores across the country are at their lowest in decades, making it harder for kids to succeed in school, for adults to manage daily life, and for communities to thrive.

In Pierce County, 36% of K-4 students struggled to read at grade level in 2023, and many adults face barriers to using technology, managing finances, and understanding medical information.

Without strong literacy skills, it becomes harder to access resources and making informed decisions becomes a challenge.

Literacy: The Key to Everyday Life

  • Digital literacy – navigating technology, from email to video calls
  • Financial literacy – managing money with confidence
  • Health literacy – understanding and using medical information

That’s where the library comes in.

Breaking Down Barriers to Literacy in Our Community

The Pierce County Library System is dedicated to expanding literacy access for all through:

  • Mobile libraries – Delivering resources to underserved neighborhoods.
  • Free books for kids – Empowering young readers to build home libraries.
  • Engaging programs – Storytimes, summer reading, ESL classes and more that make learning fun.
  • Outreach visits – Partnering with schools and community events to meet people where they are.

Your support on Library Giving Day helps fund these vital programs, ensuring everyone in our community has the tools they need to read, learn and succeed.

2025 South Sound Library Giving Day Collaborative

Did you know that there are 28 public library locations in Pierce County? Like choosing a favorite book, choosing a favorite library location isn’t always easy. Well, we love them all! Which is why Pierce County Library Foundation is proud to partner with our neighboring library foundations to spread the word about how amazing our local libraries are!

This month, let’s come together to spark a love for reading and learning in our communities. From helping kids discover the joy of reading to supporting adults in improving their literacy skills and bridging the digital divide, every step makes a difference.

Join the Foundations of Pierce County LibraryPuyallup Public Library and Tacoma Public Library in spreading lifelong literacy for all. Together, we can create a brighter future, one page and one click at a time.

Donate today and be part of the movement to build a more literate, informed and empowered Pierce County.