United Way of Delta County Imagination Library

08/26/2026

Our community signed on to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library in 2017 to give our children the best start in life. Inspired by Dolly Parton’s own dad, who couldn’t read or write. While our hearts are incredibly sad today, we’re more inspired than ever to continue this important mission. Together, we are building a brighter future for our children. Thank you for supporting our work and Dolly’s legacy.

08/26/2026

❤️

Millions of children started home libraries because of Dolly Parton’s commitment to early literacy.

For more than three decades, Dolly Parton's Imagination Library has mailed books directly to young children around the world — creating more opportunities for reading, connection, and learning.

Today, we remember and honor Dolly for a lifetime of advocacy and for the generations of young readers her vision will continue to inspire. In her words, “You can never get enough books into the hands of enough children.” We couldn't agree more. 📚❤️‍🩹

08/25/2026

Dolly, we are forever grateful for your generous heart. What a legacy you are leaving. 💔❤️

Global icon and humanitarian, Dolly Parton, known to the world as a beloved singer, songwriter, philanthropist, actress, playwright, and author died peacefully today in Nashville, Tennessee. She was 80 years old.

Dolly is preceded in death by her beloved husband of 59 years Carl Thomas Dean (1942 – 2025), her mother Avie Lee Caroline Owens (1923 – 2003), and father, Robert Lee Parton, Sr. (1921 – 2000).

A rhinestone life that shone bright enough for the world to see, Dolly will forever stand as an inspiration not only through her timeless music and prolific songwriting, but also her wit, warmth, and kindness that made us all feel like family. Dolly Parton’s legacy is one of love, compassion, and resilience. With a seven-decade career, she inspired multiple generations of artists and fans with her music and an unwavering commitment to making the world a better place. Her songs will continue to resonate with people of all ages, and her philanthropic work will have a lasting impact.

At Dolly’s request, a small, private service will be held for immediate family. Dolly’s fans and friends from around the world are encouraged to pay tribute to Dolly on social media by tagging or by leaving a message at www.dollyparton.com

In lieu of flowers the family asks for donations to be made to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library at www.imaginationlibrary.com

08/18/2026

Reach Out and Read, a national nonprofit, serves more than 4.8 million children a year across the U.S. We use guidance from clinicians about shared reading and healthy early relationships to empower children, families, and communities.

07/22/2026

Reading with young children becomes even more powerful when it turns into a conversation.

Interactive reading helps children build vocabulary, strengthen comprehension, and stay engaged with the story. Try these simple techniques while reading together:

🔹Ask questions about the story or pictures
🔹Point to words or objects on the page
🔹Repeat new or interesting words
🔹Connect the story to real-life experiences

Talking about stories helps children understand language and ideas in deeper ways.

Learn more about supporting early literacy at home: uwdelta.org/school-readiness

07/16/2026

Just 10 to 15 minutes of reading each day can have a lasting impact on a child’s development.

Those quiet moments spent sharing stories help children build important skills and create meaningful connections with the adults in their lives. Daily reading helps children:

🔹Improve attention and listening skills
🔹Expand imagination and creativity
🔹Strengthen early literacy development
🔹Build strong emotional bonds with caregivers

It does not take long to make a difference. A few minutes each day can help build a foundation for lifelong learning.

07/10/2026

Parents and caregivers of young children, we need your voice at this School Readiness Summit!

How do we know if a child is ready for school?

If you're a teacher, early childhood professional, health care provider or a parent/caregiver of young children, we need you at our July summit for a conversation on measuring school readiness. Dinner will be provided, courtesy of Matt Wiles Catering.

07/07/2026

Reading to children before kindergarten has a powerful impact on their learning and development.

Research shows that children who are read to regularly hear significantly more words during their early years, helping build stronger vocabulary and language skills before they even step into a classroom.

Just one book a day can make a meaningful difference. Reading together helps children:

🔹Build vocabulary and language skills
🔹Strengthen brain development
🔹Improve communication and listening
🔹Develop a lifelong love of reading

These early moments with books help prepare children for success in school and beyond.

07/03/2026

What a beautiful way for Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce to celebrate their upcoming nuptials! Thank you for supporting early childhood literacy! ❤️

07/01/2026

Sometimes the simplest habits can make the biggest difference in a child’s learning journey.

Making a weekly trip to the library part of your family routine helps children stay connected to books, stories, and new ideas. Regular library visits give children opportunities to:

🔹Discover new books every week
🔹Participate in educational programs
🔹Strengthen early literacy skills
🔹Build lifelong reading habits

Over time, these small moments add up to a strong foundation for school success.