About Us
Transforming Pediatric Care in Illinois Through Literacy
Reach Out and Read Illinois empowers pediatric primary care providers to transform the well-child visit into a powerful moment for early literacy promotion, school readiness, and family connection.
“The Reach Out and Reach at the Chicago Public Library! partnership this year has made our clinic staff more excited about Reach Out and Read; we have been able to get more of them on board with making sure our patients get a book. It’s been great to see them explain to families about the activity bags and how the books are the theme. We’ve really grown as a group and clinic by getting to participate in Reach Out and Read.”
Stacy Laurent, DO
From the Exam Room to the Home
As an evidence-based, pediatrician-led program, Reach Out and Read supports families in establishing strong reading routines from birth through age five. During each well-child visit, providers offer guidance on the importance of reading aloud and give a developmentally appropriate book to the child, turning everyday checkups into opportunities for lifelong learning.
“The books we give out are the tools we use to show parents the joys of reading together, and they also help me evaluate how the child is developing. I have been practicing Pediatrics with Reach Out and Read at Lurie Children’s for almost 25 years and I cannot imagine now doing a check up with a young family without a book!”
Mariana Glusman, MD, FAAP
Proven Impact, Backed by Research
Backed by over two decades of peer-reviewed research, the Reach Out and Read model delivers measurable outcomes. Participating families are more likely to read together regularly, children experience significant gains in language development, and well-visit attendance improves. Pediatricians also report that the program enhances their relationships with families and enriches the clinical environment.
“The Illinois team is amazing at providing support, especially when you’re first opening the program in your clinic. It can be a little overwhelming, but all you have to do is ask, and they will get back to you with a checklist of exactly what to do, how to do it, how to find funding, and any questions you may have.”
Ashley Fischer, MD, FAAP
Our Impact
Building Brighter Futures, One Book, One Family, One Visit at a Time
At Reach Out and Read Illinois, impact isn’t measured only in numbers, it’s reflected in bedtime stories shared, in stronger bonds between caregivers and children, and in the growing confidence of families supported through every well-child visit.
Clinic Programs Across the State
From rural towns to urban centers, we are building a literacy-rich future one clinic at a time.
- 190+ Reach Out and Read Illinois sites, and growing
- 115 clinics in Cook County
- 75 clinics throughout the rest of Illinois
Families Reached Through Pediatric Care
In 2024 alone:
- Over 180,000 brand-new books were placed in the hands of young children during their doctor’s visits
- 141,706 well-child visits included Reach Out and Read guidance, helping families build strong daily reading routines
- 60% of families served rely on Medicaid or HMO Medicaid, underscoring our commitment to health equity
- More than 26,000 Spanish-speaking families received culturally relevant literacy support
- Every book gifted, every moment shared, helps families build the habits and connections that fuel a lifetime of learning.
Why This Work Matters
The Science is Clear & Urgent
- 95% of a child’s brain develops in the first six years
- Yet, in Illinois, only 38% of families read to their babies daily
- Reading aloud together nurtures connection, language development, and early brain growth
- Studies show that children exposed to more books at home show greater brain activation in areas linked to imagination, understanding, and learning
This is why Reach Out and Read is more than a literacy program, it’s a movement to empower families, close opportunity gaps, and strengthen futures through the simplest and most powerful act: reading aloud together.
Equity in Early Literacy
In Illinois, Reach Out and Read serves over 190 clinical sites and distributes more than 180,000 books annually to children across the state—many of whom come from under-resourced communities. Our work is grounded in health equity, ensuring that all children, regardless of background, enter school with the language skills and confidence they need to thrive.
“Reach Out and Read is not only an avenue to literacy, but it’s an avenue for equitable health care, and should be engaged in every single health system across the country.”
Denise R. Cunill, MD, FAAP
Meet the Leaders Behind Reach Out and Read Illinois
At Reach Out and Read Illinois, our mission is guided by a dynamic and passionate team of professionals and young advocates. On our Leadership page, you’ll meet the Board of Directors and the Teen Advisory Board—two groups working together to ensure every child has the chance to grow up with books, stories, and strong caregiver bonds. Learn more about the individuals who are shaping the future of early literacy in pediatric care.
Powered by Providers & Partners
Our mission is made possible through the dedication of healthcare providers and the investment of funding partners who believe in the transformative power of early literacy. Together, we’re building stronger families, healthier children, and brighter futures.
