Read with Ripple

Read with Ripple

What is “Read with Ripple”?


Early literacy skills are critical to school readiness, and Richmond Public Library is a key partner in literacy and learning in our city’s children. Our program, Read with Ripple, brings the library to young readers in their preschool or day care settings. This program was established to foster a love of reading, help build home book collections, and create a meaningful connection to the library as a lifelong resource. Parents and caregivers also receive practical, simple tips to strengthen these essential skills at home with their children.

Who is Ripple?


Ripple the river otter is Richmond Public Library’s loveable mascot. He attends all of the library’s major events and many special occasions throughout the city. Ripple loves to share stories, dance, and take pictures with friends!

Why is “Read with Ripple” important?


Early literacy is essential to a child’s readiness for school. Reading is the single best way to help your child prepare for lifelong educational success. Read with Ripple fosters a love of reading early on, helping children understand the value of stories and books. It also provides parents and caregivers with useful tips to encourage reading at home.

How can I help?


Volunteers can assist as reading buddies in our Read with Ripple program. These visits typically take place Monday through Friday from 9:30 to 10:30 AM. We serve preschool and daycare sites located across the city of Richmond. If you would like to volunteer, please fill out the Read with Ripple volunteer form.

Read With Ripple Volunteer Form

Name(Required)

Read with Ripple Volunteer Agreement


Volunteer Expectations

Volunteers can assist as reading buddies in our Read with Ripple program. These visits typically take place Monday through Friday from 9:30 to 10:30 AM. We serve preschool and daycare sites located across the city of Richmond. If you would like to volunteer, please fill out the Read with Ripple volunteer form.
  • Complete the volunteer signup process, follow all program communications, and comply with day-of procedures including check-in and classroom expectations.
  • Report to the school front office for every visit, present a government-issued ID, and sign in and out through the Raptor system.
  • Wear your printed volunteer name badge at all times in the school building.
  • Follow all school emergency and security protocols.
  • Secure your personal belongings; the program and schools are not responsible for lost items.
  • Remain flexible and adaptable regarding scheduling changes and classroom assignments; the same classroom cannot be guaranteed for each visit.
  • Dress comfortably while representing the program professionally; clothing must be appropriate and free of offensive or divisive messaging.
  • Maintain confidentiality regarding all student information.
  • Do not photograph students without permission and do not post student images online.
  • Use staff restrooms only, not student restrooms.

Interacting with Students

  • Maintain professional boundaries and avoid unnecessary physical contact.
  • Use respectful, inclusive language and honor students’ cultural backgrounds, identities, and expressions.
  • Model positive teacher techniques, use appropriate language, and maintain a calm, encouraging, and flexible demeanor during classroom visits.
  • Do not photograph students without permission and do not post any student images online.
  • Report any safety or wellbeing concerns to the volunteer point of contact or designated RPL staff immediately.

Gifts and Donations Policy

Volunteers are asked not to bring gifts, treats, or incentives to classrooms during program-related visits. The focus of each visit should remain on your time and the books provided through the program. Any personal donations must be coordinated directly with the school and classroom teachers and must comply with RPS guidelines.

If you agree that early literacy is important, please help us buy books by donating in support of Read with Ripple.