Books for Tots, a Coeur d’Alene-based nonprofit, marked two decades of service to underprivileged children across North Idaho by distributing free literature to young readers. The organization has placed more than 136,000 books into the hands of children who might otherwise lack access to reading material, advancing literacy in Kootenai County through sustained community effort and volunteer coordination.
Founder Linda Rohlinger and her son Kyle handed out books Friday afternoon at the Coeur d’Alene Boys and Girls Club, where volunteers stationed at both the Coeur d’Alene and Post Falls locations distributed nearly 500 volumes during a single afternoon event. The milestone reflects the scale of need in the region and the organization’s capacity to meet it through coordinated book drives and donor partnerships.
From Toys for Tots to Independent Nonprofit
Books for Tots began in 2007 as a seasonal campaign within the Toys for Tots framework, initially limited to Christmas book giveaways. Over the past two decades, the program has expanded into a year-round operation organizing multiple distribution events annually. The organization now targets acquiring between 8,000 and 10,000 books each year to support ongoing giveaways across Kootenai County.
Rohlinger stepped down from her leadership role three years ago but remains active as a board member, allowing fresh direction while preserving institutional continuity. Melissa DeMotte, owner of The Well-Read Moose bookstore in Coeur d’Alene, currently heads the organization. DeMotte emphasized the educational foundation underlying the nonprofit’s mission, stating that “reading is fundamental in life” and that free access helps young readers “build a lifelong habit of reading.”
Sourcing Books and Community Support
Books for Tots acquires its inventory through multiple channels. The organization conducts organized book drives at The Well-Read Moose, accepts community donations, and purchases discounted titles through Scholastic’s program. A recurring book drive at The Well-Read Moose is scheduled to run from November 1 through December 15, offering residents an opportunity to contribute directly to the nonprofit’s annual purchasing goals.
The organization accepts monetary donations through its giving platform at https://givebutter.com/BooksforTots2026, allowing supporters who prefer financial contributions to fund book acquisitions. This diversified funding model has sustained the organization’s ability to scale distribution as demand from schools, community centers, and youth organizations across the Panhandle has grown.
Impact on Kootenai County Readers
Access to free books addresses a documented gap in literacy resources for economically disadvantaged children. Research consistently shows that early exposure to reading materials strengthens language development and academic performance. By placing books directly into the hands of underprivileged youth, Books for Tots removes financial barriers that might otherwise prevent children from building personal libraries or developing reading habits during formative years.
Rohlinger articulated the philosophy guiding the nonprofit’s work: “The gift of reading is very meaningful, and I think that books can open up worlds that kids don’t find anyplace else.” This perspective recognizes reading not merely as an academic skill but as a pathway to expanded imagination and opportunity, as first reported by the Coeur d’Alene Press.
The Friday afternoon giveaway at Boys and Girls Club locations in Coeur d’Alene and Post Falls demonstrated the volunteer infrastructure the organization has built. Sustained volunteer engagement ensures books reach intended beneficiaries efficiently and that distribution events can occur frequently enough to serve growing numbers of young readers across the county.
What Comes Next
Books for Tots continues accepting donations of gently used books and new titles year-round. Residents interested in supporting literacy initiatives in Kootenai County can participate in the upcoming fall book drive at The Well-Read Moose or contribute financially to the nonprofit’s purchasing efforts. The organization’s two-decade track record demonstrates both the persistence of literacy gaps in North Idaho and the capacity of community-led nonprofits to address them sustainably.
For more information on how to donate books or contribute financially to Books for Tots, visit the organization’s giving page or contact The Well-Read Moose directly. Community members throughout Coeur d’Alene, Post Falls, Hayden, Rathdrum, and surrounding Kootenai County areas can participate in supporting young readers’ access to free literature.
Similar community literacy and youth support initiatives operate across North Idaho. The Coeur d’Alene Women’s Group recently distributed $15,000 in scholarships to local recipients, reflecting broader regional commitment to education and opportunity for young people.