Metro East Literacy Project

Since 2012, MELP has reached out to Metro East communities to spread the message of literacy and to give families access to books. MELP starts families off with a bag of 25 books, including titles for adults and children. We meet families where they are, in childcare centers, adult education classes, preschool centers, community events, churches, and more.

In 2022, MELP launched Erudite Nation. It’s more than a t-shirt slogan. It’s an identity, a declaration, and a mindset that understands that Literacy is Liberation! It Takes You Higher. It's a change in the narrative of our communities from being book deserts to fertile communities of literacy. It’s also a family’s pledge to have 100 books in their home in 2025.  It's a family's "Yes" to let a Family Literacy Champion encourage them along their literacy journey.

Notable Human Films made a captivating short documentary titled "The Book Lady." This powerful film highlights the transformative power of literacy and sheds light on MELP's mission to empower lives through reading.

What's new this year? MELP is raising $5,000 to develop and launch Page & Turner, our kangaroo and joey mascot. Page and Turner will appear at parades, festivals, and literacy events across the Metro East. Much like Fredbird is to St. Louis, Page and Turner will become a cherished symbol of literacy in our region. With your help, we can inspire generations of readers and build a stronger, more connected community.