Dolly Parton's Imagination Library of Louisville was founded in 2016 through a partnership between the Junior League of Louisville, WAVE 3 News and the Jefferson County Public Education Foundation. Its mission is to put more books in the hands of Jefferson County children in an effort to foster a child’s love of reading and prepare them for kindergarten. We believe that by improving early educatio
n in our community, we can contribute to the lifelong success of Jefferson County children. Beginning in January 2017, children who are enrolled will receive a free book in the mail every month after enrollment until their 5th birthday. The books are addressed to them, and are theirs to keep in order to help families build a library in their home at no cost. Each year, a committee of early childhood education experts selects age appropriate books that work to bring families together and create a culture of reading.
This program can be instrumental to the success of kids in Jefferson County, where nearly half of all children do not enter kindergarten ready to learn. And early success predicts future success, as nearly two-thirds of students who reach the fourth grade without proficient reading skills end up in welfare or in prison. We believe that future is unacceptable for our children, and are working to directly change the outcome through the Imagination Library.
In its first year, it will serve up to 500 children under the age of 5 who live in the 40202, 40203 and 40208 zip codes. Everyone in those zip codes, regardless of family income, is welcome to participate. Community partners would like to see the program expand to include every zip code in Jefferson County.
The Imagination Library of Louisville is made possible thanks to Delta Dental, the Rotary Club of Louisville and other generous sponsors.
