Frequently Asked Questions

How many total books has Books 4 Bright Futures shipped?

We have shipped 11,315 books as of October 1, 2025.

How many Sri Lankan schools have received your books?

22 schools as of October 1, 2025.

What types of books are you looking to collect for your shipments?

We collect gently used English reading books for kids of all ages, including picture books, early readers, chapter books, middle-grade novels, English learning guides, and educational books on subjects like science, nature, geography, and history. Please avoid donating old or damaged books, textbooks, encyclopedias, workbooks, or books with mature, political, or religious content.

How are local schools in Sri Lanka using the books they receive?

The schools that receive our donated books use them in a variety of creative and meaningful ways.

  • School Libraries: Books are added to school libraries, giving students daily access to English storybooks and learning materials.

  • Classroom Reading: Teachers use them for guided reading sessions to build vocabulary and language skills.

  • Reading Corners: Some schools set up cozy reading corners where students can enjoy books during breaks.

  • Reading & Storytelling Activities: Students take part in storytelling sessions and reading clubs that make learning fun.

  • Community Sharing: Books are sometimes shared with nearby schools or community groups to reach even more children.

What schools and libraries in Sri Lanka have received your books so far?

Shipment #1

Gemini Dissanayaka Model School (Hasalaka)

Dharmadarshi Primary School (Kadawatha)

Shipment #2

Gemini Dissanayaka Model School (Hasalaka)

Dharmadarshi Primary School (Kadawatha)

Rathkarawwa Maha Vidyalaya (Rathkarawwa)

Heennarangolla Maha Vidyalaya (Borlanda)

Mahamaya Balika Maha Vidyalaya School (Counselor Unit)

Mahamaya Balika Maha Vidyalaya School (Kadawatha)

Lunuwatte Made Maha Vidyalaya (Lunuwatte)

Divulapitiya Pradesheeya Sabha cool (Divulapitiya)

ESA Library (USA Paranagama)

Shipment #3

Welideniya Kanishta Vidyalaya (Wanduramba)

Wanduramba Central (Wanduramba)

Lelwala Wickramasinghe Junior School (Wanduraba)

Olcott College (Galle)

Narawala Maha Vidyalaya (Galle)

Kithulpitiya Ananda Maha Vidyalaya (Galle)

WP/KE/Kirillawala Primary School (Kirillawala)

St. Marys Vidyalaya (Mabola Wattala)

Sri Siddhartha Vidyalaya (Welikadamulla)

Madduma Bandara Primary school (Weliweriya)

Gonahena School (Gonahena)

How can my school request a shipment of books?

Please send the following items to our email address at Books4brightfutures@gmail.com:

  • A request letter from the school principal explaining the need for English books and how they will be used.

  • Photos and videos showing your school, library, and students reading in each grade to help us understand your needs.

Our local volunteers will review your request, verify school details, and coordinate the next steps with you.

How long does it take to ship books from the US to Sri Lanka?

We typically send two shipments of books from the U.S. to Sri Lanka each year, with book collection happening continuously. Once shipped, it usually takes about 1–2 months for the books to arrive, clear customs, and be delivered to the schools through our local distribution network.

What percent of Sri Lanka children are fluent in English by graduation?

In Sri Lanka, most children study in Sinhala or Tamil, with English taught only as a second language. As a result, many students struggle with English fluency by graduation. Our mission is to help young learners strengthen their English skills through reading—building confidence, curiosity, and a lifelong love of learning.

What areas of Sri Lanka are your books being shipped to?

We send books to schools in need across Sri Lanka—big or small, urban or rural—regardless of their location. So far, we have shipped books to schools in Kadawatha, Hasalaka, Uva Paranagama, Lunuwatta, Boralanda, Rathkarawwa, Divulapitiya, Wanduramba, Wattala, and Galle.

How significant is English language fluency for Sri Lankan children as they graduate high school?

English fluency is crucial for Sri Lankan students, as it opens pathways to higher education and better career opportunities. Since most children study in Sinhala or Tamil, they often have limited English exposure. By providing English books, we help them practice the language, gain confidence, and prepare for a brighter future.

I have books I would like to donate, how and I get them to you?

If you have books to donate, please reach out through the “Get Involved – Contact Us” section on our website, email Books4brightfutures@gmail.com, or text 614-477-8607 with the details. We’ll gladly arrange a convenient pickup from you.!