Asserting that early reading success is a strong predictor of academic success in later grades and that the early childhood years (birth through age 8) are critical for literacy development, this issue brief explores actions states can take to develop and support literacy-rich environments for children. Following an introductory summary, the brief highlights the current problem of lack of literacy development in some children and describes what is present in a literacy-rich environment. The brief then discusses actions for state policy makers: (1) raise public awareness; (2) provide resources and information; (3) improve professional development of teachers; and (4) increase access to literacy-rich environments. The brief also describes efforts to support literacy-rich environments in Connecticut, Delaware, Michigan, Missouri, North Carolina, Ohio, South Carolina, and Wisconsin. (EV)