CHILDREN
TO WV
CHILDREN
Dolly Parton ’ s Imagination Library of West Virginia is a book gifting program that mails free , high-quality books promoting early literacy and school readiness to children from birth to age five , no matter their family ’ s income or zip code .
West Virginia is one of only 19 states that boasts statewide availability of Dolly Parton ’ s Imagination Library , which requires funding to sustain its 53,000 actively enrolled children .
The total 60-volume home library includes titles that promote self-confidence , emotional awareness , interpersonal skills and overall positive themes , starting with “ The Little Engine That Could ,” and ending with “ Look Out Kindergarten , Here I Come !”
When children participate in Imagination Library , schools receive a better prepared kindergartener and studies have proven that by third grade , graduates outperform their peers in academic testing . Statistics also reflect higher high school graduation rates , positively impacting economic and workforce development and even substance use prevention . Recent findings by the Robert C . Byrd Center of Rural Health support that being read aloud to forges a safe emotional foundation and promotes nurturing interactions between children and caregivers which aids in long-term behavioral health stability linked to the deterrence of drug use .
Enrollment is provided free of charge to families in West Virginia through a partnership with The Dollywood Foundation , the West Virginia Department of Education and Marshall University ’ s June Harless Center , which relies on grants , fundraising , private donations and corporate giving . The Marshall University June Harless Center is seeking sponsorships for children enrolled in Imagination Library to continue to sustain and grow the program and positively impact the future of our state .
Please consider making a tax-deductible contribution to advance this program !
One John Marshall Dr ., Huntington , WV 25755 | 304-696-3180 | marshall . edu / juneharless / imaginationlibrary