When we started Annie’s Foundation in late 2022, our goal was simple: to create access to stories that were being censored through challenges or removals. We reached our first major milestone at the end of our second year in late 2024, having donated 10,000 books. In 2025 alone, we distributed more than 8,000 additional titles—and now, before the end of June, we’ve surpassed 25,000 books donated. What began as a modest plan for a dozen giveaways each year quickly grew into around 30 annual events, plus guest speaker engagements and a multitude of community partnerships, propelling us toward this moment.
These aren’t just numbers—they represent real access. At an average retail value of $25 per book, our donations represent more than $600,000 returned to the community. That kind of impact is only possible because of the people behind it: our supporters, donors, volunteers, community partners, and the passionate readers who believe in the freedom to read, the power of a good story, and the importance of diverse voices.
As we celebrate this milestone, we also recognize that the work is far from over. Efforts to limit access to books continue in Iowa and across the country.
While donations are always welcome and appreciated, there are many ways to support this work: volunteer with us, like and share our social media posts to help grow our reach, tell others in your community about Annie’s Foundation, and help raise awareness of censorship efforts and current legislation. Together, we can continue to expand access—one book at a time.
