Reach Out and Read (ROR)

Reach Out and Read (ROR) is a program that promotes early literacy by bringing new books and advice about the importance of reading aloud into the pediatric exam room.  This makes literacy promotion a standard part of pediatric primary care so that children grow up with books and a love of reading. 

Doctors and nurses give new books to children at each well-child visit from 6 months of age to 5 years, and accompany these books with developmentally appropriate advice to parents about reading aloud with their child.  This reinforces the parent's role as the first and most important teacher, and gives parents the tools and techniques to help their children succeed.

The ROR program model is based on research that shows a connection between the frequency of sharing books with babies, toddlers and young children and enhanced language development.  The Reach Out and Read program provides a link between literacy and a healthy childhood, with a special emphasis on children growing up in poverty. The National Reach Out and Read site can be reached at http://www.reachoutandread.org. 

Each October your medical librarians mark National Librarian's Month with a book drive for new or gently-used children's books.  This effort is carried out with enthusiasm from medical student volunteers in the Pediatric Interest Group, organized by Dr. Marlene Broussard.  Collection boxes are placed on-campus and at local church schools. The book drive collection ends on Halloween.  Other supporters include the campus bookstore manager as well as members of the Faculty Spouses Club. See the following link for book donation suggestions: http://www.reachoutandread.org/involved_used.html

Please complete this application to volunteer to read aloud in the well-child waiting room Volunteer Services Application. (pdf)