In a significant initiative to promote literacy, DEMCO has partnered with Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library to provide free access to high-quality books for children in the local community. This program targets children from birth to age 5, allowing them to receive up to 60 books by the time they complete the program. Families can enroll their children at any time, and participation is open to everyone, regardless of membership status with DEMCO.
Monthly Book Deliveries to Foster Literacy
Through this collaboration, children enrolled in the Imagination Library will receive a new, age-appropriate book delivered directly to their homes each month. Each book is personally addressed to the child, creating a sense of ownership and excitement about reading. Parents and caregivers have the option to choose between books in English or bilingual formats, which include both English and Spanish.
Randy Pierce, CEO and general manager of DEMCO, expressed pride in the partnership, stating, “DEMCO is proud to partner with Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library to help local families give their children the gift of books — and a head start on a brighter future.” This sentiment underscores the program’s commitment to enhancing early childhood literacy and supporting families in their educational journeys.
Accessible Enrollment Process for Families
The enrollment process for the Imagination Library is designed to be straightforward and efficient. Parents and guardians can check the availability of the program by parish and begin the enrollment process at DEMCO.org. This initiative is entirely free of charge, ensuring that no financial barriers prevent families from accessing valuable reading resources.
Additionally, the Imagination Library includes a partnership with the American Printing House for the visually impaired, known as Braille Tails. This aspect of the program aims to make literature accessible to children with visual impairments, further enriching the reading experience for all participants.
Overall, the collaboration between DEMCO and Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library represents a significant step towards fostering a love for reading among young children. By providing free books and promoting literacy, this program is poised to make a lasting impact on the community’s educational landscape.
