Student success is directly linked to literacy. According to the latest data from the Georgia Council on Literacy, 62% of third-graders are not reading on grade level. The findings come as state lawmakers consider the Georgia Early Literacy Act of 2026, which aims to improve literacy through several approaches and strategies. 

“Closer Look’s” February installment of “Coffee Conversations was held at The Ke'next Cooperative located in the Westview neighborhood. Host Rose Scott talked with several guests, including children’s book authors. They discussed community-center resources and programs geared toward improving literacy rates in Georgia and read excerpts from children’s books. Guests included:

Kiyomi Rollins, the owner of The Ke’nekt Cooperative

Gayle Hunter Holloman, the executive director of Fulton County Library System

Caroline Ahmann, owner of the Beloved Books Bookmobile

Dr. Nicola Chin, a pediatrician at Morehouse Healthcare and a Reach Out and Read Clinician

Alex Ryan, the founder of Alex in Wonderland, LLC, and the author and creator of “Zina Bina Learns the Value of Money” 

Dr. Breanna J. McDaniel, an educator, speaker and author of the book “Go Forth and Tell”

Shelly Anand, an author of “Laxmi’s Mooch”

Reem Faruqi, an award-winning author of “Lailah's Lunchbox”