America Reads

Established in 1996, America Reads is a national initiative designed to help children become successful, independent readers. Through federal work-study opportunities, college students serve as literacy tutors and mentors in local schools and communities. At the University of Northern Iowa, America Reads facilitates a partnership with local public schools to strengthen literacy skills and foster a lifelong enjoyment of reading in children. Through America Reads, the University of Northern Iowa collaborates with local public schools to inspire a lifelong passion for reading while strengthening literacy skills among children.

• UNI students gain valuable hands-on experience by planning and leading interactive learning activities that build their teaching and leadership abilities.
• Local elementary students participate in shared reading and engaging literacy-based book club experiences, creating meaningful learning opportunities for both children and college mentors. 

Together, they foster a stronger culture of literacy in the community.

Dear Principals and Reading Teachers,
"If you are interested in partnering with the UNI America Reads program to support literacy development in your school, please contact Dr. Sunah Chung for additional information and partnership opportunities."

Research Projects (IRB: L-22-0139)
Chung, S. (2025). Pre-service teachers’ experiences of leading after-school book club. Teaching Education, 1–21. https://doi.org/10.1080/10476210.2025.2603279