UNITED STATES — As students head back to school for the 2026-27 year, Dr. Seuss Enterprises and First Book are distributing backpacks filled with books to 50 classrooms nationwide.
The initiative, supported by Random House Children’s Books, includes copies of the newly released Dr. Seuss title Sing the 50 United States!, along with activity books, crayons and the classic The Cat in the Hat.
According to the organizations, the program is designed to promote literacy and help students start the school year with educational resources and school supplies.
Dr. Seuss Enterprises President and CEO Susan Brandt said the partnership aims to expand access to books and encourage a lifelong love of reading among children and families.
First Book, a nonprofit supporting educators and programs in low-income areas, highlighted that access to books still poses a significant challenge in many regions. They mentioned that certain under-resourced communities have as little as one book for every 300 children.
First Book President and CEO Kyle Zimmer said the donated books will help support educators and encourage reading among students. The organization cited survey data showing that many teachers purchase books and classroom resources with their own money.
Along with the classroom giveaways, representatives from First Book and Dr. Seuss Enterprises will hand out backpacks and books to students at Noyes Elementary School in Washington, D.C., on September 9. The event will also include a visit from The Cat in the Hat.
First Book said it is working to increase access to books and educational resources for children living in underserved communities across the country.
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