Halloween Read and Treat aims at getting more books into the homes of kids by offering trick-or-treaters an opportunity to choose a free book when receiving their treat. The event’s creator, Warren, Pa., resident Ruby Wiles, encourages individuals, businesses and organizations to take part in this program that enhances children’s futures.

“Most people would be surprised how many kids don’t have any books of their own,” says Warren, Pa., resident Ruby Wiles. “Children who are readers can achieve success and go for their dream. But it is difficult to become a reader without having ready access to books.”

That’s why Wiles is working so hard to promote and expand Halloween Read and Treat, a registered trademark of Allegheny Creations. She is the founder/director of this social enterprise and of Free Books for Kids Town, a non-profit whose mission is children’s literacy and education. Its goal is providing books that match children’s interests and spark their love of learning.

“A book is a gift that keeps on giving: No amount of candy can compete with the amount of knowledge and inspiration a child can obtain from a single book,” Wiles said.

At Halloween Read and Treat locations, kids can choose a free book when they receive their Halloween treat. Read and Treat happens at these locations today:

– Sheffield, Pa.: Bethany Lutheran Church, 110 Church St.

– Tidioute, Pa.: 260 Main St.

– Warren, Pa.: 3 Redwood St., 6-8 p.m.; 410 Hickory St., and St. John’s Lutheran Church Trick or Treat, 200 Pleasant Drive, 5 to 7 p.m.

Recognizing that the local community needed access to books they could buy, in 2018 Free Books for Kids Town launched Kids Town Books inside of Warren Antiques, the Second Hand Exchange building at 306 Second Ave., Warren.

For 2025, any individual, business or organization that would like to become an official participant in Halloween Read and Treat can contact Wiles at HalloweenReadAndTreat@gmail.com for guidance on how to get started. To learn more, visit FreeBooksKidsTown.com, HalloweenReadAndTreat.weebly.com, and FreeBooksForKidsTown on Facebook.