Cleveland Kids’ Book Bank Expands literacy Efforts with New Facility

The Cleveland Kids’ Book Bank, a nonprofit dedicated to promoting literacy, has acquired a significantly larger warehouse to expand its operations. The organization now seeks an additional $500,000 to fund crucial renovations to enhance accessibility and create welcoming spaces for children and families.

New Warehouse Quadruples Space, Solidifies Literacy Hub Role

The Cleveland Kids’ Book Bank has successfully purchased a 24,000-square-foot warehouse in the Bellaire-Puritas neighborhood. This new facility more than quadruples the size of their previous 5,000-square-foot location near downtown,marking a major milestone for the organization.

• Expanded Capacity: The larger space allows the Book Bank to significantly increase its book storage and distribution capabilities, reaching more children and families in need.
• Centralized Resource: The move solidifies the organization’s role as a central literacy hub for the Greater Cleveland community.

A Hub for Literacy

According to Natalie Friedl, executive director of the Cleveland Kids’ Book Bank, “By having a literacy hub here, people know that if you’re an author, if you’re a reader, if you’re a student, if you’re a parent, there’s some place you can go to find resources to make sure that your literacy is elevated and that you can help others do the same.”

Generous Donations Fuel Purchase

The purchase of the new warehouse was made possible through meaningful contributions, including a $500,000 lead gift from the Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel Foundation and a $100,000 contribution from The Higley Fund of the Cleveland Foundation. The success demonstrates strong community support for literacy initiatives.

Friedl emphasized the widespread support, noting, “So many individuals came forward and donated small gifts, big gifts. they’re all a part of this legacy that shows the commitment that Cleveland has to literacy.”

Phase II: Renovations and Accessibility

With the purchase complete, the Cleveland Kids’ Book Bank has launched Phase II of its Next Chapter Capital Campaign, aiming to raise $500,000 for renovations. These upgrades will focus on improving accessibility and creating engaging environments for children and families. The renovations will comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to ensure the facility is inclusive and accessible to all members of the community. These enhancements are not just about physical upgrades, but also about fostering a sense of belonging and safety for all visitors.

Apollo’s Book Nook: A Special Tribute

Among the planned renovations is “Apollo’s Book Nook,” a dedicated space honoring 5-year-old Apollo Bohanan, a young book lover who passed away unexpectedly. Friedl shared that this will provide “a space called ‘Apollo’s Book Nook’ where kids can pick up a book — maybe one of Apollo’s favorites — and read quietly or read to him and just have that nice safe space.” the Book Nook will also feature special story times and reading programs that celebrate the joy of reading. It will serve as a lasting memorial to Apollo and his love of books.

Impact and Future Plans

Since its founding in 2016, the Cleveland kids’ Book Bank has distributed over 4.9 million free books to children and families in Greater Cleveland, significantly impacting literacy rates and promoting a love of reading. The organization hopes to complete renovations and open its new facility by this summer, further expanding its reach and impact.

• Increased Distribution: The new warehouse will enable the Book Bank to distribute even more books, reaching underserved communities and helping to close the literacy gap.
• Community Partnerships: The organization actively collaborates with schools, libraries, and other community organizations to maximize its impact and ensure that books reach children who need them most.

Support the Next Chapter

The Cleveland Kids’ Book Bank’s expansion represents a significant investment in the future of literacy in Greater Cleveland. By providing access to books and creating a supportive environment for reading, the organization is empowering children and families to succeed.

To support the Cleveland Kids’ Book Bank Next Chapter Capital Campaign,visit their donation page and help them reach their goal of providing essential literacy resources to the community. Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a difference in the lives of children and families in greater Cleveland. Consider making a donation today and be a part of this critically important mission.