Attendance at this year’s Book Bash nearly doubled from previous years, thanks to New Worlds Reading’s growing community connection. Since 2021, the program has reached over 450,000 total children around the state, including 71,000 children in Hillsborough County.
Administered by the UF Lastinger Center for Learning, New Worlds Reading aims to serve nearly one million children across Florida not yet reading on grade level. Each enrolled child receives nine free books per school year and personalized reading activity packages. Books are available in English, Spanish, Haitian Creole, and Braille to support diverse literacy needs.
“New Worlds Reading wants to do more than give books to students — we want to create experiences that inspire a lifelong love of learning,” said Robin Gregory, Interim Assistant Director of New Worlds Reading at the UF Lastinger Center for Learning. “Our annual Book Bash is always an exciting event, bringing families together to explore the joy of reading and emphasize the importance of literacy.”
Book Bash is an annual event reaching a different region of Florida each year. Plans are already underway for the 2026 Book Bash. Stay connected on social media for updates!