Born to Read

The Born to Read program invites families with newborns to start their child’s path to reading.

At participating hospitals, new parents receive a bookmark that can be brought to any St. Louis County Library location for a free board book and a voucher for 2 free tickets to a select St. Louis Cardinals game. 

Born to Read will also expand to St. Louis County Department of Public Health WIC offices in 2025. Families will receive a bag at their postpartum, 6-month visit and 1-year visit.

Our branches also host Born to Read Playdates, held once per quarter for ages 6-24 months. These programs feature fun, hands-on activities that build literacy skills and encourage learning through play.

Upcoming Playdates

Participating Hospitals 

SSM Health DePaul Hospital
Mercy Hospital South
Mercy Hospital St. Louis
Missouri Baptist Medical Center
SSM Health St. Clare-Hospital-Fenton
St. Luke’s Hospital
SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital-St. Louis

Participating WIC Offices

John C. Murphy Health Center
North Central Community Health Center
South County Health Center
St. Louis County DPH Koch Park WIC Office

Sponsored By

 

St. Louis County Library - colorful widget horizontal logo with black text

 

St. Louis County Library Foundation (logo)
Great Southern Bank (logo)

 

St. Louis Cardinals Care (logo)

 

Delta Dental (logo)
St. Louis Blues for Kids (logo)
Community Connections Parents, Caregivers & Educators
Children's Programs