At just 17 years old, Avani (Tara) Bansal has achieved what many adults can only dream of: she’s turned her passion for books and reading into a nationwide movement. Her nonprofit, Everyone’s Library, is revolutionizing access to books, particularly for underserved communities, by building permanent, free libraries in public schools, homeless shelters, and low-income neighborhoods across the United States. What began as a simple Girl Scout project has now grown into a flourishing initiative that impacts thousands of people and creates a ripple effect of positive change.

Tara’s story is one of determination and heart. At a young age, she overcame the challenges of asthma and found solace in books. This early love for reading, combined with her deep empathy for those in need, fueled her desire to ensure that everyone—young and old—could experience the same joy and academic benefits she did through books. Tara’s dream became a reality when she launched Everyone’s Library, which now has over 18 permanent libraries, more than 2,600 donated books, and has impacted over 7,000 individuals in Virginia, Maryland, and Washington D.C.

What makes Tara’s work so unique is her ability to blend social good with environmental sustainability. Everyone’s Library operates on the premise that “preloved” books—books that donors no longer need—have immense value when repurposed into community libraries. Instead of the traditional donation model where one book is given to one child, Tara's initiative builds 24/7, free libraries that house hundreds of books, offering access to a dynamic and ever-changing collection. This innovative approach not only tackles the issue of book scarcity in underserved communities but also promotes environmental responsibility by recycling and upcycling books that would otherwise gather dust in homes.

Since her first library installation at the Kathleen Hanley Family Shelter in Virginia, Tara’s work has expanded exponentially. She raised over $23,000 to fund her initiative and continues to raise awareness about the importance of providing equitable access to books. But the impact of Everyone’s Library goes beyond the number of books donated or the funds raised—it’s about the countless lives touched by Tara’s vision.

The libraries are not just about books—they’re about creating a space where individuals can explore, learn, and grow. In many of the communities Tara serves, access to books is limited, whether due to transportation issues, lack of funding, or fixed library hours that don’t fit with people’s schedules. Everyone’s Library removes these barriers by bringing books directly to where people live and learn. No longer do children have to wait for library hours to access their next read; no longer do families have to worry about overdue fees or losing a book. Tara’s libraries are open 24/7 and free to everyone, ensuring that books are available to anyone, anytime.

The unique model that Tara has created is not just impactful—it’s replicable. Everyone’s Library is inspiring youth across the country to join the movement, and Tara has personally mentored more than 21 youth leaders in other states, guiding them to build their own local libraries. The result is a network of passionate young people, all working together to create a nationwide impact. This youth-led approach is what truly sets Everyone’s Library apart. Tara’s leadership has sparked a nationwide conversation about the power of young people to make real, lasting change in their communities.

In addition to the tangible results of her work—libraries built, books donated, funds raised—Tara’s personal story of resilience and determination is a beacon of hope for other young people. At 17, she’s proving that age is not a barrier to making an impact, and her example encourages others to take action, no matter how big or small. Her nonprofit empowers not only the individuals who benefit from the libraries but also the youth who become part of the movement, showing them that they, too, can make a difference.

Tara’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. She has received numerous accolades for her work, including the Presidential Volunteer Service Award, which recognizes the outstanding contributions of individuals making a positive impact in their communities. Her innovative approach to literacy, environmental sustainability, and youth leadership has garnered recognition both locally and nationally. Yet, it’s not the awards or the recognition that Tara focuses on—it’s the people who benefit from her work, and the joy of seeing a child pick up a book for the first time.

In a world where access to education is often unequal, Tara’s efforts to democratize reading are nothing short of revolutionary. She’s not just giving away books; she’s opening doors to new possibilities, new worlds, and new futures. The impact of Everyone’s Library reaches far beyond the walls of the libraries—it’s transforming lives and inspiring a generation of young people to follow in Tara’s footsteps.

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Tara’s work continues to inspire and transform communities, and her nonprofit is poised to expand even further in the coming years. Her innovative approach to literacy and sustainability, coupled with her determination to empower youth, makes her and Everyone’s Library an undeniable force for good in the U.S.

Visit Everyone’s Library to learn more about Tara’s journey, explore ways to get involved, and help make books accessible to everyone, everywhere.