iMagicNation

02/27/2026

02/27/2026

In this important book, the author recommends no social media accounts until children reach 16.

Parenting today often feels like an uphill battle, with technology invading every corner of our kids’ lives. From the rise of social media addiction to the growing mental health crisis among children and teens,

02/26/2026

Deidrinel Masseke spoke to the youth at Solid Rock Wednesday. Born on a military base in Japan, she talked to them about her travels. She lived in Germany, Puerto Rico, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo before arriving in Springfield in 1996.

Deidrinel's warmth drew the youth to her as only a mother can. Always gentle yet firm, she challenged the participants to work hard and follow their dreams.

We appreciate Deidrinel and the other Living Legends who have shared their stories with us this month.

02/19/2026

This Black History Month, we honor the legacy of Edwin A. Lee, a trailblazing physician who helped reshape healthcare and civic life in Springfield.

In 1949, Dr. Lee became the first Black physician admitted to the Sangamon County Medical Society, breaking a long-standing racial barrier at a time when local hospitals still enforced unofficial segregation. His acceptance reflected not only his extraordinary skill, but a changing era.

A graduate of Morehouse College and Meharry Medical College, Dr. Lee served more than three years in the U.S. Army Medical Corps during World War II before making Springfield his home. Beyond medicine, he led with purpose, serving as president of the Springfield School Board and the Springfield Urban League, helping found community institutions, and advocating for the creation of the Southern Illinois University School of Medicine.

Dr. Lee’s life was defined by service, excellence, and opportunity for others. Today, Edwin A. Lee Elementary School stands as a lasting tribute to his impact.

His story reminds us that progress is built by those willing to open doors and hold them open for others.

02/18/2026

At 85-years old, Mr. Elbert Betts is still inspiring young people to pursue greatness. Today he spoke to Solid Rock youth about his life, beginning with his childhood in Aberdeen, Mississippi.

Mr. Betts is one of Springfield's most prominent educators, having served in District 186 for 30 years. At the time of his retirement in 1999, he was the Principal of Southeast High School.

We salute Mr. Betts, a Living Legend whose contributions to our community are immeasurable.

02/11/2026

Mrs. Carolyn Blackwell is one of the Living Legends who is sharing her story during Black History Month. Born in Selma, Alabama in 1945, she spoke to the youth at Solid Rock today about her life and the importance of community.

Stay tuned as we share other Living Legends this month.

01/14/2026

https://www.esquiremag.ph/culture/books-and-art/the-lost-art-of-reading-an-actual-book-src-esquire-a690-20260112-dyn?utm_source=Facebook-Esquire&utm_medium=Ownshare-Photo&utm_campaign=20260112-fbnp-culture-the-lost-art-of-reading-an-actual-book-src-esquire-a690-20260112-dyn-fbfirst-commentsectionlink&fbclid=IwY2xjawPT5JVleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZAwzNTA2ODU1MzE3MjgAAR6ey_OzD2hyQuQbDTXxwBGcjUkK2s_-LKRlgn3IK-mDoYAjSdJxstsUj_-T_g_aem_RdOHcFECGJ_2HdEfq2FY6g?utm_source=dynamic-stories&utm_medium=copylink-top&utm_campaign=dynsto

What happens when people stop reading books? We’re starting to see what a postliterate society looks like—and it’s very lame.

01/10/2026

01/10/2026

If you have a child who struggles with reading and is not where you believe s/he needs to be, send us a message. Your child may be a good candidate for our 1:1 tutoring program designed by our Founder Donna Brown.

Through our program, your child will meet with their tutor twice a week for one hour, and you will receive materials and resources for home.

If you're ready for your child to thrive and become a better reader in 2026, our reading clinic is a must.

12/17/2025

This is why our work is so important. We give away tons of books and create numerous opportunities for adults and children to spend time reading together.

Join us this Saturday from 11 to 2 for a special reading event with the firefighters from Station 6 on South 11th Street.

A recent study found less than half of children are read to daily. The consequences are serious for early learners who enter school unprepared.

12/12/2025

Cornrows is a hairstyle with cultural and historical significance. The book by the same title features an intergenerational family in which the grandmother braids her grandchildren's hair in cornrows.

iMagicNation is giving away copies of Cornrows and the board book I Love You Always Sat., Dec. 20 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Community Center at Fire Station 6 (11th and Ash).

We will also have many other titles to encourage everyone to give the gift of literacy this Christmas and holiday season. Refreshments will be served.

We hope to see you there.