The Power of ACCESS: Why Print Resources Still Matter for Equity, Opportunity, and Early Literacy

Part 2 of the EDVIEW360 “Power of Print” Week on edWeb

Following Dr. Louisa Moats’ inspiring kickoff to The Power of Print week, EDVIEW360 welcomes Dr. Susan B. Neuman, one of the nation’s most respected early literacy researchers and a leading voice on equity, access, and the role of print in children’s learning environments.

During this research‑rich session, Dr. Neuman examines the critical importance of print access—especially for children growing up in communities where books are scarce. Drawing on decades of work on book deserts, summer reading loss, and the influence of trusted messengers, she reveals how access to high‑quality print materials can dramatically change children’s literacy trajectories.

This presentation does not argue against digital tools. Instead, Dr. Neuman shows how print resources remain a powerful, evidence‑based lever for improving vocabulary, background knowledge, reading motivation, and long‑term academic outcomes—particularly for children who need it most.

Educators will learn:

• What research tells us about book deserts and why access to print is still deeply unequal
• How print-rich environments support early language and literacy
• Why summer reading matters—and how print can reduce summer slide
• The role of trusted messengers (teachers, librarians, community leaders) in motivating families to read
• Practical, research-backed strategies for increasing children’s access to books at school, at home, and in the community

Dr. Neuman’s work has shaped national conversations about literacy equity, and her findings offer a compelling case for why print remains essential—even as digital tools expand. This session will equip educators, administrators, and community leaders with actionable steps to ensure every child has the print resources they need to thrive.

Join us for this powerful second installment of The Power of Print week and stay with us for the final session featuring Dr. LaKeisha Johnson.