Did you know that the Branford-based non-profit Read to Grow ensures that 50 percent of all newborns receive a book…More in the hospital as soon as they are born?</p> <p>Books for Babies is a program provided by Read to Grow to ensure early literacy and works with six hospitals in the state with hopes to expand to reach 100 percent of Connecticut newborns. </p> <p>The non-profit's mission "is to improve early literacy for all Connecticut children by providing books, by helping families share books with their babies beginning at birth, by encouraging language development, and by promoting an awareness of existing literacy resources."</p> <p>Additionally, the organization provides Books for Children, which offers new and gently used books for families with limited resources. Families can <a href="http://www.readtogrow.org/FamilyAppBooksForm/default.asp">apply</a> online to receive free books.</p> <p>Read to Grow is always looking for volunteers and donations of new and gently used children's books. Additionally, Read to Grow encourages people to host book drives. You can learn more about helping out by visiting its <a href="http://www.readtogrow.org/Content/Get_Involved.asp">website</a>.</p> <p>Read to Grow was established by Roxanne J. Coady, founder of R.J. Julia Booksellers in Madison. She is chair of Read to Grow's board of directors.</p>