Early, positive, and culturally meaningful reading experiences cultivate children’s reading identity.
Barbershop Books inspires Black boys and other vulnerable children to read for fun through child-centered, culturally responsive, and community-based programming and content. #HelpTheBabiesRead When children identify as readers, they read for fun and perform better in reading.
06/12/2026
🌋 Danny Go's Volcano Adventure by Danny Go
Join Danny Go and friends as they explore volcanoes, tackle exciting challenges, and discover fascinating science facts along the way. This action-packed story is perfect for curious readers who love learning through fun.
📖Ages 4–8
partnered with last weekend. We joined the of Philadelphia Foundation & Friends at for SOUND IT OUT!—a celebration of reading, connection, and community.
Thanks to everyone who stopped by! 👋
.literacy
06/03/2026
This weekend we attended the Roots Picnic and joined an incredible group of partners to celebrate literacy, community, and culture.
Alongside an incredible group of partners, we spent the weekend celebrating literacy, community, and culture.
Festivalgoers stopped by the SOUND IT OUT! pavilion to grab free books, a special-edition library card, connect with local literacy organizations, and learn about resources available to families across Philadelphia. We were proud to provide free haircuts and connect with children and families throughout the event.
One of the best parts of the weekend was seeing so many people come together around a shared belief: every child deserves the opportunity to
become a reader.
A big thank you to The Free Library of Philadelphia Foundation, Free Library of Philadelphia, Read by 4th, PA Literacy Coalition, the African American Children's Book Project, Emerson Collective, PLUS1, and all of the partners who helped make the weekend possible.
And a special shoutout to our barber partners, Faheem Alexander, Jeremy Slaughter, Sherman Harris (Faheem's Hand of Precision), James Cooper (Major League Cuts Elite), and Tony Lee (ATL Barbershop) for providing the fresh cuts.
We're grateful to be part of a city that continues to show up for its kids. 📚💙
hashtag hashtag hashtag hashtag hashtag
05/31/2026
🦸🏽♂️ Sidekicks: Thick as Thieves by Dan Santat
When a mystery unfolds, a group of superhero pets step in to save the day. With action, humor, and teamwork, this story keeps readers engaged while following characters who must work together to solve the problem.
📖 Ages 9 to 12
When pulls up to a activation, you know the mission is resonating. Thanks for the love!
Our collab with the is what happens when community and culture show up for reading and for our children. We’ll be back tomorrow at the Plat with more free cuts, free braiding, and free books.
This is what it looks like when reading meets the culture.
At the Celebrity Game, master barber Tony Lee from ATL’s Barbershop in North Philly had the boys looking sharp while we put books in their hands. Families received a free copy of Better Than a Touchdown by and an alphabet game card deck.
That’s our mission. Male reading role models inspiring fun literacy experiences in culturally meaningful spaces where Black boys feel seen.
We’re at the Roots Picnic all weekend. Come through a grab a free cut or books. See you at the Plat.
05/29/2026
Help more Black boys see themselves as readers. 📚
Your support helps create joyful reading experiences that inspire boys to read for fun.
💈 $30 provides early literacy training for one barber
📚 $75 adds a new title to our free E-Library
📖 $180 provides a curated set of books to one barbershop
❤️ $720 supplies a year of materials and support for a participating barbershop
Every gift helps bring books, reading role models, and positive reading experiences to children and families.
Donate today ⬇️
https://secure.everyaction.com/jWsyPaQokU6zbsxWlaB8qQ2
05/29/2026
🏀 Who Is Michael Jordan? by Kristen Anderson
Follow the journey of Michael Jordan, from a determined young athlete to a global icon. This story highlights the hard work, challenges, and mindset that helped him succeed, offering inspiration for readers who dream big.
📖 Ages 9 to 12
05/25/2026
🎈Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Partypooper by Jeff Kinney
Greg is planning the ultimate birthday party, but nothing seems to go his way. From unexpected guests to chaotic surprises, this story is packed with the humor and relatable moments that fans love. Perfect for readers who enjoy a good laugh.
📖 Ages 9 to 12
05/22/2026
Looking for a meaningful summer program for your child?
Reading So Lit Summer is a free virtual reading program designed for boys of color ages 6–8. Through interactive small-group sessions, relatable reading role models, and engaging activities, boys build confidence, explore their reading interests, and develop positive relationships with books.
Families also receive free books and a Lit Kit to support reading at home.
☀️ Session 1: July 6–16, 2026
☀️ Session 2: July 20–30, 2026
Apply ➡️ https://barbershopbooks.org/programs/summer-program-2026/
| Monday | 9am - 5pm |
| Tuesday | 9am - 5pm |
| Wednesday | 9am - 5pm |
| Thursday | 9am - 5pm |
| Saturday | 9am - 5pm |
| Sunday | 9am - 5pm |