Student nonprofit proposes eight Little Free Libraries to boost reading in Las Vegas

ReadUp Youth representatives told the YNAB Grant Review Board they are a student-led 501(c)(3) addressing literacy disparities and proposed Little Libraries Big Future: an eight-site Little Free Library program targeting Title I elementary schools in Las Vegas.

Celine Chang and Rohida Vaskaran said the project responds to local reading-level gaps; presenters asserted that many students in Las Vegas read below grade level and proposed building, painting and maintaining eight small, publicly accessible cabinets stocked with books and STEM activities. The group requested $1,600 to cover materials (presenters listed an estimated $431.92 for wood and other line items) and pledged 20–30 volunteers providing more than 125 hours. When board members raised the requirement that YNAB-funded projects take place within Las Vegas city limits, presenters said they would revise site selections to include only qualifying locations and coordinate with partner schools.

Board members also asked about whether the group had prearranged host permissions. ReadUp Youth said they have reviewed Little Free Library locations online and plan to work with elementary school partners to secure placement; presenters acknowledged they have not yet confirmed all site agreements and said they will follow up. The YNAB board will review funding recommendations at a later deliberation and will notify applicants within three weeks.