About the
World Book Bank
BOOKS DONATED
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
- 2024: 300,667 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
5915 NW 23rd Street
Oklahoma City, OK 73127
Get in Touch. Get Involved.
We welcome your feedback, ideas, comments, questions, or concerns. If you would like to request books for your organization, please visit the Request Books page and fill out the form. We look forward to hearing from you!