READING RAILROAD
READING RAILROAD
The Dayton Metro Library’s Reading Railroad program is a transformative strategic initiative dedicated to fostering a love of reading and learning for Black boys and young men. This effort also includes providing holistic resources for adults and community partners within their support systems. This program seeks to address disparities in literacy rates and educational outcomes by creating culturally affirming spaces where participants can explore literature, develop critical thinking skills, and strengthen their confidence as learners. Through immersive storytelling experiences, curated book selections that reflect their identities and experiences, signature events, and mentorship from community leaders, the Reading Railroad encourages participants to view reading as a tool for self-discovery, empowerment, and lifelong success.
The program's foundation is the integration of brotherhood, community service, literacy and education, and holistic well-being. By involving families, educators, and community partners in this effort, the program also provides a support system that extends beyond the library. The Reading Railroad empowers Black boys and young men to see themselves as leaders, change-makers, and contributors to their communities. We are committed to ensuring that all children and young adults have the tools, encouragement, and resources to thrive in all aspects of their lives.
Earn $5,000 as a Reading Railroad Conductors
Learn to Earn Dayton's Black Boy Brilliance program and the Dayton Metro Library’s Reading Railroad initiative have joined forces in a powerful partnership rooted in a shared mission: to empower, affirm, and uplift Black boys through culturally responsive education, literacy, and community engagement.
Preschool Promise Ambassadors (paid roles at $22.00/hour) will now have the opportunity to Guest Read as Reading Railroad Conductors, allowing them to support early literacy programming while also logging required reading hours for their organization or personal development goals. Conversely, Reading Railroad Conductors, who are currently in non-paid, Guest Reader roles, will be eligible to transition into paid Ambassador positions through Preschool Promise, as long as they meet program criteria. This creates an accessible pathway to paid early childhood work and continued impact in the community. This intentional alignment supports both workforce development and literacy impact, while reinforcing a shared mission of uplifting Black boys through representation, mentorship, and culturally responsive programming. We’re excited about the possibilities this integrated model creates—not only for participants but for the families and children they serve.
Black Men Read - 250 in 2025 Community Challenge!
We’re calling on 250 Black men across Montgomery County and beyond to inspire the next generation of readers by sharing the joy of storytelling with young children. Whether you volunteer as a Hometown Hero Guest Reader at one of our 17 library branches, read to a loved one at home, or bring a story to life at a local (pre)school, community center, church, or another space where young minds gather, your participation matters. Your voice can spark curiosity, foster connection, and help create a lifelong love of reading.
Step up and be part of this powerful movement to celebrate literacy, representation, and community. Black men are rarely seen as storytime curators, and now is the time to challenge the status quo. Together, we can make 2025 a year of transformation for young readers. Ready to make an impact by becoming a “Reading Conductor?”
STRATEGIC INITIATIVES
STRATEGIC INITIATIVES
Hometown Heroes
Dayton Metro Library’s Hometown Hero Guest Readers Series celebrates the influence and inspiration of prominent Black men in the Greater Dayton Region with distinguished guest readers. From elected officials and award-winning artists to nationally recognized educators and changemakers, the Hometown Hero Guest Readers Series highlights the importance of representation in shaping the aspirations of young minds. Children of all ages and their caregivers are invited to listen to stories from such leaders who have made a meaningful impact in our community. Storytimes will be held on the first Monday of every month (except in August and September), from 5:30 - 6:30 PM, in the Children’s Creativity Space at the Main Library. Registration is not required.
Cataloging the Culture Podcast
This podcast is a groundbreaking platform that amplifies the voices and stories of Black men working in libraries across the nation. Hosted by DML's Dr. Karlos L. Marshall, episodes delve into their unique journeys in a field where they remain underrepresented.
Fatherhood Academy
The Fatherhood Academy strives to create an environment where Black fathers can explore literacy, healing, and social and emotional learning through the use of Bibliotherapy and Positive Parenting with enriching activities, a structured and safe environment, and impactful interactions with others. Topics discussed include being adamant about breaking generational habits, not letting statistics define you, addressing trauma head-on, and focusing on literacy (with you and your child).
SIGNATURE EVENTS
SIGNATURE EVENTS
Student Mental Health Symposium
Upcoming Symposium
Featuring Life Coach and Motivational Speaker Josh Copeland, this symposium will bring together students, educators, administrators, and parents from different backgrounds to discuss the mental health and well-being of students in our community and beyond. Attendees will discover opportunities for engaging students through dance, art, and spoken word. Collectively, we can work together to reimagine our expectations and representations of students and their well-being.
The symposium aims to change how young people from diverse backgrounds and identities connect with each other through group support and in-person socialization that usher in new modes of social connection rooted in vulnerability, empathy, and empowerment. Please use this link to sign-up!
Honoring Black Fathers
Flowers & Fathers
In today’s world, Black fathers and father-figures are present, engaged, and nurturing. They are the unsung heroes whose love and commitment extend beyond their households into shaping communities and inspiring future generations. We uplift and honor these men through this amazing event by giving them their flowers. This event will include an award ceremony to recognize select individuals.
Community members can nominate any individual who resides in Montgomery County for the “2025 Flowers and Fathers Award” regardless of their race or ethnicity. We will recognize fathers and father-figures that defy stereotypes and embody love, courage, and commitment to their family and community. Nominations can be submitted here.
The Black Child Book Fair Tour
Upcoming Event
"Books for Black children are hard to find" is a common statement in our society. Black children need to see faces that look like theirs and stories about people that look like them, written by people that look like them.
The Black Child Book Fair is a not-for-profit organization that promotes African American focused reading materials in urban communities nationwide to enrich the educational, emotional, developmental, and social needs of youth with diverse backgrounds.