Strengthening Early Literacy Through Connection and Community

My Brother’s Keeper Houston, in partnership with the Houston Public Library, is launching the Reading Buddies Initiative during Spring and Summer 2026 to support early literacy and build confidence for elementary-aged readers across Houston.

This initiative pairs kindergarten through fifth grade students with high school and college-age volunteers for short, consistent, and engaging reading sessions held at Houston Public Library locations throughout the city.

How the Reading Buddies Program Works

Reading Buddies is designed to be impactful for students and manageable for volunteers:

• Volunteers are paired one-on-one with a K to 5 student
• Each session includes four 20-minute reading blocks
• A 3-minute transition period allows time to rotate participants between sessions
• Sessions take place once per week at the library location selected by the volunteer
• Total time commitment is just under 90 minutes per week

Programs run for 9-week cycles:

• Spring Session: March 30 to May 30, 2026
• Summer Session: June 1 to July 31, 2026

Why Reading Buddies Matters

Early literacy is a key predictor of long-term academic success. When students experience reading as supportive, relational, and fun, they are more likely to:

• Improve reading fluency and comprehension
• Build confidence and positive associations with learning
• Strengthen communication and social skills
• Stay engaged in school

By pairing younger students with older peers, Reading Buddies also creates leadership pathways and meaningful service opportunities for youth and young adults.

Calling All Volunteers

MBK Houston is currently recruiting high school and college students to serve as Reading Buddies. Volunteers will:

• Support elementary students during weekly reading sessions
• Serve as positive role models in a public library setting
• Choose a preferred Houston Public Library location where they can reliably attend
• Participate in a brief virtual orientation and training before placement

Volunteers can select from multiple library locations, including:

• McCrane-Kashmere Gardens
• Robinson-Westchase
• Oak Forest
• Flores
• Park Place

Specific days and times are listed on the sign-up form

What Volunteers Receive

Volunteers who complete their commitment will receive:

• An official volunteer hours letter
• Eligibility for letters of recommendation for school, scholarships, jobs, internships, or service organizations
• Hands-on experience working with youth in a structured, supportive environment

Who Should Volunteer

• High school students seeking service hours or leadership experience
• College and trade program students interested in education, literacy, or youth development
• Young adults passionate about giving back to their community

No prior tutoring experience is required. Volunteers should enjoy working with children and be able to commit consistently for one session cycle.

Volunteers must complete the Houston Public Library’s (HPL) Volunteer Form:

• Youth (14-17) https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/1ed89539745d442dac3ff77d999979f3
• Adults (18+) https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/592a1aecfa2e44678424702e7c3a1418

* Under why are you interested in volunteering at HPL? – enter will be participating in the Reading Buddies program.

Join the Reading Buddies Initiative

Reading Buddies is more than a program. It is a commitment to ensuring every child feels supported, capable, and encouraged as they grow as readers.

Interested volunteers should complete the Reading Buddies Volunteer Interest and Sign-Up Form and select their preferred library location.

Together, we can build stronger readers and stronger communities, one page at a time.