Imagination Library of Talbot County, an affiliate of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, provides children in Talbot County, birth to age 5, with a free, brand new, age-appropriate book each month, mailed directly to their homes. Some of the books children receive are classic childhood books such as The Tale of Peter Rabbit and Owl Moon, plus newer best sellers such as Llama, Llama, Red Pajama and If I Built a Car.
“It is so important that children have the opportunity to have their own library of books,” said Francesca Wiseman, Assistant Director. “Parents might think that reading is something magical that happens in kindergarten, but the truth is that the magic happens at home, in the laps of parents, grandparents, and even older siblings. Children, who are enrolled in Imagination Library from birth receive a library of 60 books. This is an easy and great way to make sure our county’s children are ready for kindergarten.”
United Fund of Talbot County’s support will cover the cost of 2,400 books for the program. “At this time there are 1,000 children enrolled in our program.” said Wiseman. “That means 1,000 books are mailed to children in our county every month. “
The United Fund of Talbot County funds programs that directly improve the quality of life for those in need, living in Talbot County. Partnering with Imagination Library of Talbot County is a natural fit as reading to babies and young children on a daily basis is one of the most important activities parents can do to promote healthy brain development. United Fund of Talbot County’s support makes sure Talbot County’s preschool children have the opportunity to own books, regardless of their family’s income, and will make a big difference in their lives.
Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library has recently been nationally recognized as a model for best practices in promoting literacy. The Library of Congress Literacy Award recognizes and supports organizations and institutions in the United States and abroad that have made significant contributions to combating illiteracy. Organizations are selected for this award because they have successfully used evidence-based practices to promote literacy in real world context.
ILTC is an affiliate of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. To learn more about this program or to register your child, please visit ILTC at www.imaginationlibraryoftalbotcounty.org.