Better Basics

Check out what’s in the Better Basics library!

Book access matters, and book distribution is a core part of all of our programs.

Each of these books will be gifted to students in our programs this fall. From fantasy and mystery to nonfiction and everything in between, our library is filled with books that give children opportunities to discover new stories, explore new ideas and extend learning beyond the classroom.

What book would you read from our library? 👀

It’s National Give Like Dolly Day, and we’re celebrating Dolly’s dream that every child could grow up surrounded by books. 💖

Today, that dream lives on in the hands of children around the world, including right here in Central Alabama.

Through Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, more than 17,000 children in Jefferson and Walker Counties receive a free book every month. As Alabama’s largest Local Program Partner, Better Basics is honored to help bring that vision to life right here in our communities.

We’re grateful for the legacy, the stories, and the lasting impact of a simple idea: that every child deserves the chance to have a book of their own.

Kinda chic to see the same kids grow week after week and know you had a hand in it!

We’re hiring certified elementary teachers to work as Reading and Math Intervention teachers right now.

Apply to teach with us today: betterbasics.org/get-involved/employment/

665 years! That’s how much combined teaching experience is in this one picture.

Last week we held training for our Reading and Math Intervention teachers, and this is just one of three training days!

We’re so grateful for the passion, expertise, and experience our teachers bring to their work with students. We’re excited for all they’ll bring into the classroom this year!

Want to be part of a team like this? We're hiring certified elementary teachers to join us as Reading and Math Intervention teachers.

Apply to teach with us: betterbasics.org/get-involved/employment/

Thank you, Spire Foundation, for this incredible $15,000 grant to Better Basics' Math Intervention program! Partners like you make it possible for us to keep supporting students across Central Alabama.

At Love for Literacy, we had the privilege of celebrating Ruby Walker, our 2026 Teacher of the Year. Her students made the largest gains in Math Intervention last year, reflecting the dedication and skill she brings to her classroom every day.

We’re grateful to our Mentor Sponsor, Altec Inc., for investing in educators like Ms. Walker and recognizing the powerful role teachers play in helping children succeed. Your support helps Better Basics provide students with the instruction and opportunities they need to grow.

As we look ahead to another school year, we’re excited to welcome more passionate educators to the Better Basics team and make an even greater impact together. ❤️📚

Do you know a great teacher looking for meaningful, flexible part-time work? 📚🍎

We’re hiring certified teachers to provide small-group reading and math instruction in local schools during the school day. These positions are a great fit for retired educators, but all certified teachers are encouraged to apply.

• Part-time
• During school hours
• $25/hour

**Applications are due Tuesday, September 8.**

Know someone who might be a great fit? Tag them, share this post, or send it their way. Every share helps us connect great teachers with students who need them.

Submit a resume and cover letter to [email protected] or learn more at betterbasics.org/employment

Congratulations to our very own PIO Henry Irby on receiving the Better Basics John Glasser Award!

This annual honor recognizes an individual who demonstrates a humble commitment to serving children and advancing literacy.

We are proud of PIO Irby for his continued dedication to making a positive impact in our community. Please join us in congratulating him on this well-deserved recognition!