Everyones Library A Youth-Led Movement to Revolutionize Access to Books Across America

Founded by 17-year-old Tara Bansal, Everyone’s Library is a youth-led movement to create free, 24/7 access to books in schools and underserved communities across America. The initiative has already impacted thousands, fostering literacy and sustainability.

Washington, District of Columbia, United States, 3rd Jul 2025 – Everyone’s Library is an innovative, youth-led initiative that has made significant strides in improving free access to books in schools, shelters, and other underserved communities across the United States. Founded by 17-year-old Avani (Tara) Bansal, the organization provides free, 24/7 access to books in schools, homeless shelters, and other communities with limited access to reading materials. What began as a Girl Scout project in 2022 has since blossomed into a nationwide movement, reshaping the way individuals access and engage with books.

The mission of Everyone’s Library is simple yet powerful: to ensure that books are available to everyone, regardless of their socioeconomic status, geographic location, or access to public libraries. Tara’s initiative provides a permanent solution to the barriers that often limit access to reading materials—such as restricted library hours, limited transportation, and late or lost book fees.

A Sustainable Model for Book Sharing

What distinguishes Everyone’s Library from traditional book donation efforts is its focus on building permanent, sustainable, free mini-libraries that are accessible 24/7. These libraries are stocked with gently used books donated by individuals, allowing the nonprofit to address two key issues: the need for books in underserved areas and environmental concerns related to waste. The books in these mini-libraries are rotated regularly to support a diverse selection and encourage a lifelong love of reading for individuals of all ages.

Tara’s approach to book-sharing not only increases access to books but also eliminates the waste typically associated with one-off donations. Through these carefully curated and always-available libraries, Tara’s initiative is making a lasting impact on the communities it serves.

The Growth and Impact of Everyone’s Library

Since its inception, Everyone’s Library has experienced rapid growth. With over 20 mini-libraries now established across Virginia, Maryland, and Washington D.C., the initiative has already donated over 2,700 books and raised $24,000 to fund its expansion. The project has reached more than 7,700 individuals, providing them with free and consistent access to reading materials.

“I believe that everyone, regardless of where they live, should have the opportunity to experience the joy of reading,” says Avani (Tara) Bansal, Founder and CEO of Everyone’s Library. “Our libraries are designed to be permanent and accessible, removing all the barriers that prevent people from engaging with books.”

Youth Leadership and Community Partnerships

One of the most inspiring aspects of Everyone’s Library is its emphasis on youth leadership. Tara’s work has not only transformed her local community, but it has also inspired young people across the country to establish their own chapters of Everyone’s Library. To date, there are 21 youth leaders nationwide who are now building libraries in their local communities, all under Tara’s mentorship.

The initiative also enjoys strong support from local educators, shelter staff, and community leaders, all of whom are instrumental in ensuring these libraries meet the needs of those they serve. Key contributors to the success of the program include Edwina Bates at Katherine Hanley Family Shelter, Josephine Sexton at The National Center for Children and Families (NCCF), Michele Hook with New Hope Housing, Denise Ziegler at Alexandria Community Shelter, Megan Joe at So What Else Inc. and exceptional Principals and educators like Ingrid Badia, Molly Bleich, Trisha Heyer, Christoph Hill, Laniece Carter, Carmen Bell, Jesse Belarde, Sarah Thornborough, Ronae Smith, Michael Coates, Amin Littman, and Dr. LaTanya Sothern. These leaders exemplify the kind of community-centered partnership that makes sustainable literacy access possible.

Support from school principals has been inspiring. “Tara is a true steward of her community, consistently demonstrating a resilient spirit in overcoming challenges and tirelessly working towards a more vibrant and supportive environment for everyone,” says Christoph Hill, Principal of Westlawn Elementary School in Virginia.

“The Little Library has brought joy, imagination, and hope to those transitioning out of homelessness. Each book lifts the spirit, offering words that land like colorful butterflies and spark laughter, reflection, and healing. We are deeply grateful for the gracious wonder it brings to our shelter,” says Felicia Richmond from Katherine Hanley Family Shelter.

“I sincerely appreciate the impact Tara’s initiative is making on childhood literacy,” shares Principal Badia from Annandale Terrace Elementary School in Virginia.

Recognition and Expansion

Tara’s work has gained national recognition. She has received multiple honors, including the Girl Scout Silver Award and the prestigious Gold Presidential Volunteer Service Award. Additionally, she has been nominated for the Virginia Governor’s Volunteerism & Community Service Award, acknowledging her significant contributions to community service and social change.

Her success has garnered attention not just from communities but from the media and online platforms, where her story continues to inspire others to take action. Tara’s ability to combine social good with environmental sustainability has also earned Everyone’s Library widespread acclaim, making it a model for low-cost, high-impact literacy initiatives.

The Future of Everyone’s Library

As the organization continues to expand, Tara remains focused on ensuring that every person, regardless of their circumstances, has access to books. She envisions a future where Everyone’s Library has a presence in every underserved community across the United States, offering free, 24/7 access to a diverse range of reading materials.

“Everyone’s Library is more than just about donating books; it’s about creating lasting, sustainable libraries that evolve with the needs of the community,” Tara concludes. “Our goal is to ensure that the love for reading is something everyone can experience, no matter where they live or what their age or background is.”

For more information about Everyone’s Library and how to get involved, visit www.EveryonesLibrary.org. Stay updated on the latest developments by following the initiative on Instagram.

About Everyone’s Library

Founded in 2024 by Tara Bansal, Everyone’s Library is a youth-led 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing 24/7 access to free books in underserved communities. The initiative focuses on creating sustainable, permanent, free mini-libraries in schools, homeless shelters, and other spaces, helping to foster literacy and a love of reading for all ages.
Website: www.EveryonesLibrary.org
Instagram: @everyoneslibrarynonprofit

Media Contact

Organization: Everyone’s Library

Contact Person: Avani (Tara) Bansal

Website: http://www.EveryonesLibrary.org

Email: Send Email

City: Washington

State: District of Columbia

Country: United States

Release Id: 03072530185