Our Story

Turn the Page KC began in 2011 as a community-wide effort to improve children’s reading proficiency in Kansas City. Launched by Mayor Sly James, the initiative brought together schools, libraries, businesses, nonprofits, and community members around a shared belief: every child deserves the opportunity to become a confident, capable reader.

Over time, our work has grown beyond reading proficiency alone. We have continued to build partnerships, expand access to books and learning resources, and support the families and community organizations that shape children’s earliest learning experiences.

Today, through READ 360°, we are building on that legacy with a neighborhood-centered approach to literacy. We believe strong literacy communities grow when families are connected, equipped, and supported, and when parents have meaningful opportunities to shape their children’s learning and their communities’ futures.

Our vision is a Kansas City where every family has the relationships, resources, and opportunities to help children thrive as readers and lifelong learners. We bring people together to make that vision a reality, one family and one community at a time.