Bears Read: Building Leaders & Readers.

Bears Read is a signature literacy initiative of The Carolina Bears designed to help youth athletes ages 6–12 improve reading skills, build a habit of reading, access free educational resources, and promote family engagement in literacy. We believe that academic success and athletic success go hand in hand.

Through partnerships with local libraries and structured season-long reading challenges, Bears Read promotes consistent reading, increases access to free educational resources, and supports lifelong learning for student-athletes and their families.

What We Do

• Ensure every athlete has a public library card.

• Educate families on free library resources including books, audiobooks, homework help, and digital learning tools.

• Challenge athletes to read one book per month throughout the season.

• Strengthen the connection between discipline in sports and discipline in learning

Why It Matters

We believe discipline, confidence, and success on and off the field starts with literacy. By integrating reading into youth sports culture, Bears Read reinforces the message that academic success and athletic success can be accomplished together.

Program Impact

• Improve reading and comprehension skills

  
  

• Increased access to books and learning tools.

• Stronger reading habits.

• Greater family involvement in education.

• A culture that celebrates learning.

2026 Bears Read Library Card Drive: Date TBD