The nonprofit plans to distribute more than 10,000 books to local children this holiday season, including at year-end giving events. Deirdre Steinmetz, the organization’s co-executive director of programs and operations, said the goal is to secure the books before winter break.

Residents can buy books through wish lists on Madison Reading Project’s website or donate new books at collection sites across Dane County. Local bookstores, businesses, community groups and employee teams are also planning drives and fundraisers.

The project is working with the Empty Stocking Club, Madison School and Community Recreation, the Monona and Waunakee public libraries and other community organizations. Participating booksellers include Lake City Books, Mystery To Me, Books 4 School, Ink & Ivy, Garden Wall Bookshop, Ink Cap Books and A Room of One’s Own.

Madison Reading Project founder and co-executive director Rowan Childs said the drive aims to get children books that reflect their identities and introduce them to other people’s experiences.

More information, including ways to take part, is available at madisonreadingproject.com/2026communitybookdrive.