Afterschool programs play a uniquely powerful role in growing readers. Afterschool staff have the opportunity to integrate choice, relationships, fun, and real-world connections into their literacy efforts. That means more kids get to see themselves as “readers,” explore a wide variety of books at their own pace, and build a genuine love of reading that complements skills they build during the school day. Programs can make a simple mindset shift from “providing reading support” to “creating a reading culture.” They can keep the fun in Afterschool by weaving books and storytelling into what they already do: arts, STEM, sports, and clubs.
Practical strategies work best when they’re joyful and visible. In the past, Beyond School Bells has partnered with Nebraska Growing Readers, Unite for Literacy, and Linked to Literacy “Free to Read” bookstands, giving kids the opportunity to increase book ownership. Creative projects, like a photography club that publishes student-authored books, can boost pride, and raise community awareness about the benefits of shared reading. Taken together, these small, consistent moves increase the frequency of reading, strengthen identities as readers, and help every young person feel, say, and act like “I am a reader.”
"One of our high school mentors spent the summer helping younger students build their reading skills. Through daily read-alouds and small group activities, the mentor supported students who were hesitant or struggling. Over time, one quiet student began reading out loud with confidence. The mentor said the experience helped them realize the power of patience and encouragement, and sparked an interest in working with children in the future. Thanks to this grant, our program provided meaningful opportunities for both learning and leadership, creating positive connections that will last well beyond the summer."
In early 2025, a partnership between Nebraska Children and Families Foundation’s Beyond School Bells (BSB), Nebraska Growing Readers (NGR), Unite for Literacy, and Linked to Literacy was created to fund literacy efforts. In March 2025, by offering grants of up to $2,500 for literacy projects connected to summer programming, Beyond School Bells implemented what Education Commissioner Brian Maher described as the Department of Education’s vision of fostering “a culture of proficient and lifelong readers in Nebraska.”
Read the full article on Nebraska Children's blog.
