For nearly a decade, Reach Out and Read Fox Cities has been sharing the joy of reading with over 100,000 children and their families in our community. If your family has left the pediatrician’s office with a book in hand, you’ve been touched by this program!

Since its launch with a United Way Fox Cities Innovation Grant in 2015, Reach Out and Read Fox Cities, led by the Appleton Public Library, has distributed approximately 176,600 books along with guidance to families with children five and under. The program has flourished, helping families build a love of reading and strengthen connections.

How Does It Work? 

During regular well-child visits, pediatricians “prescribe” the book and offer the parent developmentally appropriate literacy guidance, as well as tips to make family reading a daily routine. These simple acts help build stronger parent-child connections and early literacy skills.

Over 30% of children served come from low-income households, where access to books and literacy support can make a world of difference.

What’s Next? 

In 2015, the Appleton Public Library saw a need and stepped up to establish partnerships with 25 clinics across the Fox Cities. Reach Out and Read Wisconsin has since evolved and developed regional support throughout the state, making it the perfect time to bring the Fox Cities program into a statewide framework.

Starting in 2025, Reach Out and Read Wisconsin manage the program in the Fox Cities, ensuring its continued growth and success. This transition builds on the strong foundation created by the Appleton Public Library and United Way Fox Cities. We are deeply grateful to the Appleton Public Library for serving as an incubator, facilitator, and champion for this program over the years.

We’re excited for this next chapter and feel confident that Reach Out and Read will keep making a lasting impact for families in the Fox Cities for years to come! Together, we’re creating a community where every child can start school ready to read, learn, and succeed.

Click here to learn more about Reach Out and Read Wisconsin.