The bill establishes the Minnesota Young Readers Club program aimed at enhancing literacy support for prekindergarten through grade 5 students who are reading below grade level. It emphasizes the importance of access to diverse and engaging home libraries, which research shows can significantly improve reading proficiency and engagement. The program will provide culturally and linguistically appropriate books and literacy materials, with eligibility criteria based on universal screening and state reading assessments. The Department of Education is tasked with encouraging schools to integrate the program into existing literacy interventions and to collaborate with organizations experienced in book selection and distribution.

Additionally, the bill appropriates funds to implement the Minnesota Young Readers Club program, allowing the Department of Education to contract for literacy materials and support activities related to the program. Monthly book distributions will ensure that students receive culturally relevant and age-appropriate reading materials, accompanied by family support resources. The program will also include evaluation metrics to assess its effectiveness and will require annual reporting to legislative committees. The Department of Education is encouraged to form partnerships with private entities and community organizations to further promote literacy and engage families in the program.