In celebration of the 25th anniversary of the national Growing Readers program, Bright Horizons at Atlantic Station will host a free community literacy event on Saturday, September 20, featuring local author Lola Schaefer, live story time, and other interactive activities to empower families, expand access to books, and help children build a lifelong love of reading.

In partnership with the Bright Horizons Foundation for Children, they will also be participating in a nationwide book drive, which aims to collect 25,000 books for families in underserved communities. Donations are being accepted at all Bright Horizons locations from August through December, and online at JustGiving.com. 

When: September 20, 2025, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. 

Where: Bright Horizons at at Atlantic Station: 1381 Market St NW, Atlanta, GA 30363 

Who: All families are welcome to attend 

What: Bright Horizons’ Growing Readers program offers monthly book recommendations and storytelling tips to help parents bring books to life at home. In celebration of its 25th anniversary, Bright Horizons is inviting communities to donate books at their local center or online and participate in literacy events at select locations across the country. 

Why: Reading inspires young children to see the world and develop compassion and acceptance through the work of diverse authors and illustrators. With the goal of collecting 25,000 children’s books and closing the early literacy gap, the initiative will empower families, expand access to books and help children build a lifelong love of reading.