And if you’re struggling with finding that perfect gift for Valentine’s Day, consider giving to RIF in your sweetheart’s name. There’s nothing like the warm fuzzies they’ll get when they realize they’ve helped a child in need get their very own book.

Fairy in Danger

Phew! Fairy doctors really come in handy, don’t they? So glad you liked your book, Katie. We’re also big fans of your fairy drawing.

The Great Outdoors

Gracie, we dig funny books — like Piper Reed, Campfire Girl – too. And even though Piper does get poison ivy, we’re rooting for her right along with you. Marshmallows anybody?

Like Honest Abe

Wow, Kaimi, hearts are melting here. You just filled our bucket.

Reading Rainbow

Madeline, we couldn’t have said it any better—we think books are pretty cool too, not to mention your rainbow.

Daredevil

Javier, you’re welcome – and that’s quite an illustration! Just remember to wear a helmet, OK?

The Dinosaur Lover

Nia, Tyrannosaurus Dad is a great book, isn’t it? We just love how appreciative you are. Keep on reading kiddo!

Happy Valentine’s Day, Book People. Now let’s spread the book love.

“Dear Macy’s, You are like a superhero to my school because we haven’t had RIF in a long, long time, but because of you we got it this year.” – Katie, 3rd grade

“Dear Macy’s, When I first got a free book, I felt so happy, and I wanted to thank whoever let it happen. And now I’m thanking YOU!” — Juliana, 4th grade

“Dear Macy’s, Some of the books I liked and some of the books I loved. Thank you!” — Zachory, 3rd grade

We’re in our eighth year of partnering with Macy’s and have a lot of success stories. But there’s nothing like hearing a kid talk about what it means

Consider Joplin, Missouri. Last May, the community was hit with the worst tornado in the U.S. in more than six decades. Through the support of Macy’s and customers like you, RIF held two events for families and a training for teachers, giving away 2,600 books. For the kids who lost everything, these books represented a return to normalcy amid disaster.

And that’s just one story. There are countless others. Stories of building home libraries, stocking school libraries and rebuilding communities.

Tomorrow our “Be Book Smart” campaign with Macy’s launches. It’s our biggest fundraiser of the year. We’ll have all the details for you in the morning and will keep you updated throughout.

But, before the excitement starts, we wanted to take a moment to reflect on all that’s been possible. Dear Macy’s, To you and your wonderful customers, thank you. — RIF