Dive Brief:

• Megastar Taylor Swift and Scholastic partnered to donate 25,000 books to 25 New York City schools that lack resources. 
• The donation comes on the heels of the most recent report highlighting the "grim" reading habits of school children. Last month, the Nations's Report Card pointed out "sobering" findings in math and reading. 
• Scholastic has found a selection of books for independent reading can encourage kids to read. The same Scholastic Kids & Family Reading Report said nine in 10 kids agree their favorite books – and the ones they are the most likely to finish – are the ones they select. 

Dive Insight:

Swift, entertainer and pop culture icon, continues her work with Scholastic and its "Open a World of Possible" initiative. With reports painting a dismal portrait of reading habits and retention, Swift could usher in a well-timed Harry Potter-effect. Last October, Swift participated in a webcast promoting reading that has had 4.5 million views. 

Evidence that reading closes the achievement gap has led many districts, administrators and companies to find creative ways to deliver books to students. Jet Blue brought books to a Washington, DC neighborhood via vending machines.