John,

More than a dozen years ago, a remarkable meeting took place that set the stage for an incredible journey—and, as a result, this weekend we’re celebrating the distribution of our 10 millionth book!

When I sat down with the team at First Book, it became evident how closely aligned their mission was with ours at the AFT—a shared dedication to children, a passion for the equity and opportunity that education promises, and an understanding that it all starts with literacy.

We started with a small donation to a school library in Charleston, W.Va. Since then, we’ve grown into an impactful partnership where the AFT and our members engage with communities to support students and families.

And today, we are celebrating a monumental achievement—the distribution of our 10 millionth book through the AFT-First Book partnership—with events across the country, including in New York City. You can stream the New York event on our YouTube channel or Facebook page at 9:45 a.m. Eastern time.

Of course, we know not everyone can be physically at one of our events to participate this weekend, so this is where the surprise comes in. We’re doing a giveaway on Instagram; 100 winners will each receive a $25 gift card to First Book’s online marketplace!

Visit the @aftunion Instagram page for all the details on how to enter.

The AFT and First Book are united by a common cause, and we’ve always known that together we could accomplish what is impossible to do alone.

Thanks for celebrating with us. Now go find out how to be one of 100 winners for a First Book gift card!

In unity,
Randi Weingarten
AFT President