TEEN BOOK BANK
The Children’s Book Bank gives away free books to and hosts free programs for teens ages 13-18
HOW IT WORKS
There is no registration process, and you do not need to book an appointment.
Teens 13-18 can drop in to choose a free book anytime we are open.
Each person at a Book Bank space can take one book home every day.
The books do not need to be returned.
BOOK BANK RULES
Please keep your phone in your pocket when visiting a Book Bank space.
Meredith Rounthwaite Teen Book Bank Fund
In 2024, the Teen Book Bank in Regent Park was renamed in honour of Meredith Rounthwaite (March 23, 1989 - December 2, 2023). Meredith overcame dyslexia to become an avid lover of reading, and the world of literature provided great solace during her illness.
Through grit and determination, she earned a degree in Early Childhood Education to help other young people fall in love with books. Meredith’s memory lives on in the Meredith Rounthwaite Teen Book Bank in Regent Park, which provided 2,850 books this year.
The Mary Ladky Teen Award Mentorship Program at The Children’s Book
Launching summer 2026, The Mary Ladky Teen Award offers meaningful hands-on experience in educational programming to high school students who demonstrate a strong interest in literacy. Recipients will serve as ambassadors for The Children’s Book Bank, supporting summer operations at the agency and developing a project to promote the Book Bank’s mission in their communities. In addition to having the opportunity to work directly with literacy experts, educators, and authors, the mentees will receive an honorarium to support their learning journey.
Named in honour of the Book Bank’s former executive director, this award continues Mary Ladky’s commitment to teen literacy development. Prior to joining The Children’s Book Bank in 2016, Mary worked as a tutor, English teacher, and university professor, specializing in English Language Learning and dyslexia support. In each of these roles, she championed the importance of reading during the teen years.