BOOKS for the BARRIOS began in 1981 among U.S. Navy families who were stationed in the Philippines. From 1981 to 1986, they worked closely with other knowledgeable, motivated volunteers as well as the U.S. Navy and Philippines Airlines to distribute hundreds of thousands of books throughout the Philippines. American children play a pivotal role in building and driving the organization's vision and operations. Growth of the organization into a worldwide project has been through the emphasis of the contribution and critical role of all participants, whether staff or volunteers.

Many developing countries are suffering from a “brain drain” losing many of its educated population for opportunities abroad, especially their most qualified teachers. The effects are widespread but strengthening the education is the key element in securing economic development and a better quality of life for citizens around the world.

To date, BOOKS for the BARRIOS has sent over 12 million books overseas, trained teachers in developing countries in a modern method of teaching and established over 50 Model-of-Excellence schools, helping millions of children throughout the world. The organization has expanded allowing it to reach needy schools by directly sending books to Mexico, Honduras, Philippines and Bhutan, as well as providing consulting services to other non-profit organizations who want to help over 140 book-deprived countries.

Today, a mounting debt, economic stagnation and decline and widening disparities among its people continue to plague all developing countries. This is happening on a global scale with widespread effects, but strengthening education is a key element in securing economic development throughout the world.