Helping young readers discover that every story can take them somewhere.

Driven to Read is a new literacy initiative from Kia of Mankato created to encourage a love of reading, build personal libraries, and connect young readers with their community.

For the 2026-2027 school year, Driven to Read is being piloted in partnership with Roosevelt Elementary School in Mankato, bringing Kia of Mankato team members into the classroom to spend time reading with local first graders.

And the story doesn't end when we leave the classroom.

Every first-grade student at Roosevelt receives their very own book to take home and keep. Roosevelt Elementary helps select an age-appropriate book for the students, making sure the story is a great fit for their young readers. Each student also receives a themed bookmark to go along with their book. A QR code inside the book gives students another way to connect with the Kia of Mankato team, allowing them to read along with Kia employees from home.

Driven to Read is about more than giving away books. It is about helping young readers build a personal library of stories they can return to again and again.

Through our partnership with Roosevelt Elementary School, we are proud to support local educators and create meaningful reading experiences for Mankato students. This pilot program is just the beginning of our goal to find more ways to encourage literacy and invest in the young people who make our community so special.