The Boston Public Library Fund (BPLF) is pleased to announce a generous $25,000 grant from Bain Capital Children’s Charity (Bain Capital), dedicated to supporting youth literacy programs at the Boston Public Library (BPL). The grant will directly expand programming that reaches more than 50,000 Boston children annually at the Central Library in Copley Square and at all 25 neighborhood branches.
The grant bolsters the launch of the “1,000 Books Before Kindergarten” campaign, aligning closely with the goals outlined in the BPL’s Strategic Plan 2025-2030. This national initiative encourages families to read regularly with their young children—from birth through the start of kindergarten—to nurture early literacy, prepare children for lifelong learning, and strengthen caregiver-child bonds.
“We’re thrilled and deeply grateful to Bain Capital Children’s Charity for this impactful investment in early literacy,” said Paula Sakey, Executive Director of the Boston Public Library Fund. “This partnership ensures that early literacy remains accessible, engaging, and enjoyable for Boston’s families, setting children on the path to success even before they enter kindergarten.”
Families participating in “1,000 Books Before Kindergarten” can register through their local BPL branch and will receive a complimentary picture book and enrollment certificate. Participants can track their reading journey via the user-friendly Beanstack app or a paper tracking system. Certificates will be awarded at milestones to celebrate progress and make the goal feel achievable. The initiative will also extend into every HeadStart location in Boston, significantly expanding its reach and impact across the community.
“We are proud to support Boston Public Library’s innovative and impactful efforts to foster early literacy,” said Chris Mann, Vice President and Head of Community Affairs at Bain Capital. “We believe deeply in the power of reading and education to change lives, and we look forward to seeing the positive outcomes of this initiative.”