In September 2014, the United Way of Greater Houston launched its response to literacy development in lower-income communities. Understanding that more than 60 percent of low-income families have no books for children in their homes and that over half of third-grade students do not possess the reading skills necessary to pass fourth grade, the organization founded LINC--Lead, Impact, Network, Change.
LINC, comprised of 100 professionals, built structures and collected books to create Tiny Libraries, now housed at local elementary schools and United Way-affiliated enterprises. The group chose specific locations where families struggle to afford books and have no access to a library. Each library contains an estimated 50 books and operates on the concept of “take one, leave one.” The initiative is expected to increase basic reading skills and help students excel in academia.