The Book Truck

You have the power to change a teen’s future with the gift of a book. Join us in making a difference—because the next chapter begins with you.

OUR MISSION

The Book Truck gives away free, high-quality, diverse books and provides literacy engagement trainings across Long Beach and LA County in order to increase literacy skills among unhoused, foster care and low-SES (socio-economic status) teens, putting them on a path to a brighter future.

OUR VISION

A world in which every teen can learn, explore, engage, and thrive as a reader. 

In 2023-24 we served almost 7,000 under-resourced teens and gave away over 11,900 high-quality, diverse books.

TESTIMONIALS

“Because of The Book Truck, I went from not being a reader to being a reader. I’m not sure I would have graduated from high school if it hadn’t been for them.”
-Jonathan M., Book Truck visitor and volunteer

"Students were beaming with excitement as they were gifted with free books from The Book Truck. The gift of story is truly a wonderful thing, and our teenagers were so grateful for this! We hope that The Book Truck continues to serve our community, as they have had a real impact on us."
- Judy Gologuh, Browning High School, LBUSD

"Seeing our youth engage with the books that were donated to us by The Book Truck is great to see, especially since we operate in a part of the city that is very often overlooked and underserved. Having the capability to spread the enjoyment of stories and attainment of information through reading is an amazing gift to give to our community."
- Jonathan Mendez, Youth Institute Coordinator, YMCA OF GREATER LONG BEACH

HOW IT WORKS

HOW YOU CAN HELP

Every time you donate, you write a new chapter in the story of someone's life. You’re not just giving a book—you’re giving a future. Donate today.