New Program to Gift Free Books to Molokaʻi Keiki

A community-driven effort is hoping to promote early childhood literacy among Molokaʻiʻs keiki.

The ʻOhana Readers program, a collaboration between first lady Dawn Amano-Ige, state leaders, and non-profit organizations, will mail one book to Molokaʻi keiki four years old and younger each month for free.

“It truly takes an ‘ohana for children to thrive,” state Department of Human Services Director Pankaj Bhanot said in a press release.

“Family bonding and the ability to explore new worlds and ideas through literature is something all families should be afforded.”

Children registered in the program will receive “high-quality, age-appropriate” books. The Moloka‘i Public Library will also offer programs and activities to complement the books delivered and encourage reading.

Amano-Ige said she plans to expand the pilot program statewide.