A logo for the world book bank with a picture of the earth

About the
World Book Bank

2,557,962 +

BOOKS DONATED

2250 +

ORGANIZATIONS SERVED

Our Story

How We Got Started

At age 26, Tom Pace was reading at a 4th-grade level. When someone gave him a book that inspired him to keep reading, it marked a turning point in his life. One book, in particular, The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren, left a deep impact on him. Moved by its message, Tom began buying copies with his own money to give to people at the Oklahoma County Jail, where he witnessed firsthand the positive changes it brought to readers. Seeing how books could transform lives, he felt called to share this gift of reading with others who might not have access to it.


Tom’s vision grew from a small initiative to a broader mission. Over time, he expanded both the types of books he distributed and the reach of his program, providing resources to jails, shelters, and various community organizations. In 2013, his vision took formal shape with the incorporation of World Book Bank, which received its 501(c)(3) nonprofit status from the IRS in 2014. Today, World Book Bank continues Tom’s mission of bringing hope and opportunity through books to underserved individuals and communities.

Where We Are Now

We are gaining significant momentum as more sponsoring organizations become aware of the meaningful work we do and the lives we are helping to transform for the better. As our network of supporters grows, we remain confident that our approach offers one of the most cost-effective and impactful ways to foster lasting positive change for individuals who are determined to better their lives. By providing access to the right educational resources, we empower people to unlock their full potential and build a brighter future. We invite you to read some of our Letters From Readers to see firsthand the profound and tangible results of our efforts.


Here are the numbers from the previous years, showcasing our growth and impact:

  • 2020: 148,889 books donated
  • 2021:  225,791 books donated
  • 2022: 229,338 books donated
  • 2023: 270,377 books donated

These figures highlight our continued progress in reaching more individuals with each passing year

The Books That Change Lives

Building Trust With Our Donors

Download Our Yearly 990 Document

2022 Financial Information 2023 Financial Information
Share by: