Gift of Literacy

Gift of Literacy in South Lake Tahoe is a program that encourages a love of reading among young children. The program is designed to increase student literacy rates and infuse books into the South Lake Tahoe community.

Through rich community partnerships and generous donors, we would like every first-grader in the Lake Tahoe Unified School District to participate in this enriching literacy program.

Gift of Literacy aims to encourage students to enjoy and be excited about reading and learning by:

• Exposing them to a variety of books: Each student reads eight carefully selected titles throughout the year.
• Empowering them with a choice: Each student chooses their favorite title and receives a hardbound copy of the book at the celebration.
• Reinforcing the importance and enjoyment of reading: Students are split into small groups and read to by community members, sometimes even authors, at the celebration.
• Introducing them to a college campus: The event is held at Lake Tahoe Community College, where the students get a glimpse of college life.

This year's Gift of Literacy will be held on Friday, June 5, 2026. First graders from South Lake Tahoe will came to LTCC's campus to receive a free book and book bag, meet the LTCC Coyote and LTCC President Jeff DeFranco, and guest author Kat Medina!

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2026 Guest Author: Kat Medina

Grumple the Great: A Tahoe Tale of Kindness is a children's picture book by local author Kat Medina, illustrated by Viv Campbell, about a grumpy bear in Lake Tahoe who learns that kindness, not being the "greatest", is what truly matters. The story follows Grumple on silly adventures as he discovers the power of friendship and self-discovery, teaching young readers about compassion through a heartwarming narrative set in a familiar local landscape.

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Volunteers Needed

Do you have a passion for reading? Are you looking for a way to make a positive impact in our community? Join our team of dedicated volunteers and help us make Gift of Literacy a success! We're looking for enthusiastic individuals to help with event set up, campus tours, distributing snacks and more. Whether you have a few hours to spare or can commit to a full day, we have volunteer opportunities that fit your schedule. Meet new people, gain valuable experience, and make a positive impact in your community! If you're interested in volunteering, please contact Melissa Hoffman at melissa.hoffman@ltcc.edu or (530) 541-4660 x125 for more information. We can't wait to hear from you!

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Thank You to Our Sponsors

Books donated in honor and memory of retired teacher John Nemes.

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Past Years

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History of Gift of Literacy

Gift of Literacy in South Lake Tahoe was inspired by a book-giving program in Wyoming, “Casper Cares, Casper Reads,” now known simply as Wyoming Reads. In 1996, the Sue Jorgensen Library Foundation was established by John Jorgensen to benefit libraries and honor his late wife’s commitment to childhood literacy.

Gift of Literacy programs are thriving in many communities, including the award-winning program in Springfield, Oregon.