The Bench, Meghan Markle’s new children’s book, will be distributed “at no cost” across the United States.

On Tuesday, June 8, the Duchess of Sussex released her book, which began as a poem she penned for husband Prince Harry for his first Father’s Day with baby Archie.

She dedicated it to him and his son Archie, describing them as: “The man and boy who make my heart go pump-pump.”

Meghan and Prince Harry said on their Archewell Foundation website one day after book was launched that they would be distributing 2,000 copies of the book to schools, libraries, and other organizations.

“The Duchess and Archewell have received the support of the publisher of The Bench to distribute 2,000 copies at no cost to libraries, community centers, schools, and nonprofit programs across the country,” according to the statement.

“Those receiving free copies include vital organizations like Assistance League of Los Angeles, which has served the local community for more than 100 years and which The Duke and Duchess visited twice last year to spend time with the children at the organization’s Preschool Learning Centre.

“To make this happen, Archewell is working with the team at First Book, a nonprofit social enterprise that’s distributed more than 200 million books and educational resources to programs and schools serving kids in low-income communities in the United States and Canada.

“Reaching an average of 5 million kids per year, the First Book Network operates in classrooms, afterschool programs, libraries, community programs, military support programs, and more.”

Adding, “After more than a year of unprecedented challenges for schoolkids and families everywhere, The Duchess believes the path ahead must include a focus on well-being – and nourishing our communities through food, education, and emotional and mental health support,” the statement said. “At Archewell, that is often centered on food and essential needs (as evidenced by our partnership with organizations like World Central Kitchen) but also nourishment through learning and connection (as seen in The Duchess’s support of last year’s Save With Stories initiative to raise funds for educational resources like books, toys, and worksheets).”

The book is presently available for £12.99 in the UK, with an audio edition narrated by the Duchess.

“The Bench started as a poem I wrote for my husband on Father’s Day, the month after Archie was born. That poem became this story,” Meghan said when she announced the news earlier this year.

“My hope is that The Bench resonates with every family, no matter the makeup, as much as it does with me.” she continued.

Christian Robinson, an award-winning artist, painted the 34-page picture book published by Random House Children’s Books.

Christian Robinson, an award-winning artist, painted the 34-page picture book published by Random House Children’s Books.

“Christian layered in beautiful and ethereal watercolour illustrations that capture the warmth, joy, and comfort of the relationship between fathers and sons from all walks of life,” Meghan said of the book. “This representation was particularly important to me, and Christian and I worked closely to depict this special bond through an inclusive lens.”