A Record-Breaking Month of Reading in the Intensive Care Nursery!

In September, UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital San Francisco’s Intensive Care Nursery (ICN) participated in a friendly competition with over 200 Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs) worldwide, aiming to read the highest number of books to our patients over the same 11 day period. Our ICN proudly read 1,068 books, securing 10th place among NICUs of similar size!

This incredible accomplishment was made possible through the support of ICN caregivers, staff, and our community.

Books for the challenge were generously donated by San Francisco bookstores: Green Apple Books, Christopher’s Books, and Bookshop West Portal. Additionally, one of our amazing neonatologists organized a birthday book drive for this event. She asked that instead of gifts, her friends donate their favorite children’s books. Her book drive helped ensure that every infant in our ICN received two books to keep. The drive also helped stock our library, allowing us to continue providing books to our patients year-round.

Beyond reading at the bedside, we hosted a daily live Zoom StoryTime, where babies and their families tuned in to hear staff read stories aloud. This interactive event brought smiles and comfort to families during a challenging time.

The highlight of the month was a special appearance by Olympic figure skater Kristi Yamaguchi, who visited our unit to read stories to our babies. Her participation added a magical touch to the event.

We are so grateful to everyone who helped make this challenge a success and for the continued support in bringing the joy of reading to our ICN patients!