Imagination Library
Promoting literacy and a lifelong passion for learning
Fostering childrens’ love of reading
Welcome to a magical realm of learning and imagination with United Way of Eastern LaSalle County’s Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library program. Designed to inspire a love for reading from the earliest stages of childhood, this initiative brings the enchantment of storybooks directly to young hearts and minds. By providing free, age-appropriate books to children, Imagination Library is not just fostering literacy but igniting a lifelong passion for exploration through words. Join us in nurturing the next generation of readers in Dayton, Ottawa, Seneca, and beyond, as we believe that every child deserves the joy and wonder that a good book can bring. Immerse yourself in the world of Imagination Library and witness the transformative power of storytelling for our little ones.
Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library
United Way of Eastern LaSalle County has long been dedicated to improving the lives of its residents, and there was a particular focus on the youngest among them. Recognizing the profound impact early literacy could have on a child’s future, we sought out innovative ways to support children aged 0 to 5 years old. We found a perfect partner in Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, with its mission to foster a love for reading by providing free books to children.
What is the Imagination Library?
Imagination Library is an early literacy initiative to put books in the hands of young children, helping to promote early language and brain development, a love of reading, and preparing children for kindergarten. United Way of ELC is proud to offer this program, at no cost to families, fully funded through generous donations of community members.
Children enrolled in Imagination Library receive a free, age-appropriate book each month from birth to age five. The books are mailed directly to the child’s home for them to enjoy and keep.
All children aged 0-5 living in our service communities of Dayton, Grand Ridge, Harding, Leland, Marseilles, Naplate, Norway, Ottawa, Seneca, Serena, Sheridan, and Wedron are eligible to receive a free monthly book through UWELC’s partnership with Imagination Library.
How Much Does It Cost to Join?
It’s free! Books are 100% free to enrolled children because has UW-ELC secured funds to cover the cost of the books and the shipping fees.
Local Imagination Library partners are responsible for enrolling children who live within the geographical area they offered the program. While the Imagination Library negotiates wholesale pricing for the books, UW-ELC is responsible for securing funds to cover that cost.
How Can We Enroll Our Child(ren)?
Registration is free and easy! Click here to enroll your child(ren) in the program.
330
area children ages 0-5 currently enrolled
702
area children who have “graduated” Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library Program
100%
free to participate!
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