Books are a vehicle for social justice.J.C. Tamno Books Foundation • Maryland & African Communities
Our programs

Literacy experiences designed to grow with a child.

From the first books in a newborn’s room to workshops that position children as authors, each program builds access, agency and belonging.

01

In-Home Libraries

Recognizing that literacy begins at birth, the Foundation delivers personalized libraries to new families to nurture reading routines and a love of books from a child’s earliest days. The initial program has gifted libraries to 12 families, with an ambition to reach 100 newborns annually.

Personalized in-home library
Author read aloud
02

Author Read Aloud Visits

Authors bring books to life through interactive classroom experiences. Sessions have integrated mathematics, mindfulness, financial literacy and STEM—often concluding with a signed book or activity that extends learning into the home.

Featured authors include: Nicole Austin, Lynda Ryder, Michelle Harvey, Dr. Rachel Edoho-Eket and Tony Reid.

03

Children’s Authorship Program

In partnership with educator Dr. Rachel Edoho-Eket, the program creates room for children to write from their lived experiences rather than restrictive prompts. Through guided workshops, children develop stories, share them with peers and begin to see themselves as writers whose voices matter.

Children's authorship workshop
Community read aloud
04

Community Read Aloud Sessions

Family-centered events keep children reading during summer and beyond. Hosted in homes, schools and community settings, the sessions pair author engagement with practical strategies parents can use to support literacy at home.

05

Authors for Justice: Dialogues That Move Us

Inspired by Congressman John Lewis’ book-tour event, this series uses authors and public dialogue to deepen engagement at the intersection of literacy, civic awareness, leadership, health equity and community empowerment.

Authors for Justice event
Books for Africa
06

International Books & Libraries

Through trusted nonprofit partnerships, the Foundation addresses book deserts in African communities by expanding access to books, supporting sustainable libraries and connecting literacy resources to local priorities.